#travel industry trends

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Travel Industry Trends: Navigating the Future of Tourism

The travel industry has always been an ever-evolving sector, shaped by changes in technology, demographics, and global events. As we enter a new era, post-pandemic, the travel industry is facing unprecedented challenges and opportunities. In this blog, we'll explore the latest travel industry trends that are transforming the way we explore the world and the strategies businesses in this sector should adopt to stay ahead.

The Travel Advertising Industry |7Search PPC

The travel advertising industry is an ever-evolving landscape, with businesses constantly seeking innovative ways to attract travelers and convert them into customers. One effective method in this industry is Pay-Per-Click (PPC) advertising. Among various PPC platforms, 7search PPC stands out as a powerful tool for travel businesses to target their audiences and drive conversions. In this article, we'll delve into the travel advertising industry and explore the role of 7search PPC in helping travel companies achieve their marketing goals.

The travel advertising industry is highly competitive, with countless players vying for the attention of travelers seeking their next adventure. Whether it's airlines, hotels, travel agencies, or tour operators, the need to effectively reach and engage potential customers is paramount. This industry encompasses various marketing channels, including social media advertising, email marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), and pay-per-click advertising.

Sustainable Tourism

Sustainability is no longer a buzzword; it's a guiding principle for the travel industry. As travelers become more conscious of their environmental footprint, the demand for sustainable tourism experiences has grown. From eco-friendly accommodations and responsible tour operators to reduced single-use plastics and carbon offset programs, the industry is adapting to meet this demand. Sustainable practices not only benefit the environment but also enhance a destination's appeal to travelers.

Technology and Innovation

Technology has been a driving force behind numerous travel industry trends. Mobile apps, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence have all transformed the way we plan and experience trips. The pandemic accelerated the adoption of contactless technologies, from mobile check-ins to digital boarding passes. In the future, travelers can expect even more personalized and tech-enhanced experiences, including virtual reality tours, AI-driven travel recommendations, and improved in-flight connectivity.

Health and Safety

The COVID-19 pandemic has fundamentally altered how travelers perceive health and safety. In response, the travel advertisement industry has taken significant steps to ensure the well-being of its customers. Enhanced cleaning protocols, touchless services, and vaccination passports are just a few examples. These measures have not only become industry standards but also key differentiators for businesses.

Domestic Travel

The pandemic ushered in a resurgence of domestic travel. Travel restrictions, health concerns, and the desire for safer alternatives prompted many travelers to explore their own countries. This trend has continued, and businesses that cater to domestic tourists are thriving. Regional tourism has grown, leading to an increased focus on lesser-known destinations and unique local experiences.

Flexible Booking and Cancellation Policies

Travel uncertainty during the pandemic has forced businesses to offer more flexible booking and cancellation policies. This trend will likely persist as travelers value the ability to change plans without financial penalties. It fosters trust and loyalty among customers, knowing they can adjust their bookings as circumstances evolve.

Adventure and Outdoor Travel

As travelers seek open spaces and outdoor adventures to maintain social distancing and safety, adventure and outdoor tourism have gained popularity. National parks, hiking trails, and camping sites have seen increased foot traffic. Tour operators offering unique outdoor experiences are well-positioned to cater to this growing demand.

Workcations and Digital Nomadism

Remote work has blurred the lines between work and leisure, leading to the rise of workcations and digital nomadism. Travelers are combining work with travel, choosing destinations with reliable Wi-Fi and comfortable co-working spaces. This trend has created opportunities for businesses to cater to a new breed of travelers who value flexibility and work-life balance.

Wellness and Mindfulness

The pandemic's impact on mental health has given rise to a trend centered on wellness and mindfulness. Wellness retreats, meditation workshops, and spa vacations are becoming more popular. Travelers are increasingly seeking destinations and accommodations that prioritize their physical and mental well-being.

Cultural and Culinary Tourism

The desire to immerse oneself in local cultures and cuisines has always been a strong motivator for travel. This trend is evolving, with travelers becoming more adventurous in their culinary pursuits and seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. Food tours, cooking classes, and cultural exchanges are in high demand.

Responsible Tourism

Responsible tourism isn't just about environmental sustainability; it also encompasses ethical and social responsibility. Travelers now expect businesses to engage with local communities and contribute positively to the places they visit. Companies that demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility are gaining the trust of conscientious travelers.

Conclusion

The travel industry has experienced significant shifts and challenges over the past few years, but it remains a resilient and adaptable sector. Businesses that embrace these travel industry trends and prioritize sustainability, technology, health and safety, and the changing preferences of travelers are poised to succeed in this new era of tourism. As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of travel, staying attuned to these trends will be crucial for success, and the industry will continue to evolve, offering exciting new opportunities for travelers and businesses alike.

[aronasouris]

Is Travel Replacing Retail Therapy For Today’s Millennials?

Although this might sound far-fetched at first, as shopping is a faster and often a cheaper way of spending one’s money as compared to travelling, however, with the recent Covid-19 crisis, the volatility and uncertainty surrounding the travel landscape and policies, the travel sector is now seeing higher consumptions.

Over the past decade, there has been a rise in travelling to gain experience. Many industries have also discussed the growing popularity of this rising class of consumers who seek and value experiences.

There is a consensus held on the fact that while the generation ‘Baby Boomers’ (born 1946-64) ensured necessities (housing, education & security) for themselves and their offspring, ‘Gen X’ (born 1965-1980) didn’t feel the need to worry about the necessities and instead worked towards attaining material quality of their lives (bigger houses, cars, superior education, and achieving financial stability and comfort.) Millennials purely live for the experiences that life has to offer.

The majority of the research we run using our futuriZm technique to understand future consumers show that a small group of consumers will start the trend, and eventually the rest of the market will follow suit. The contemporary generation eagerly anticipates experiences and prioritises making memories.

A few distinct trends that are picking up could shape the future of leisure travel.

Recently Evolved Travel Trends Revitalising The Industry:

China:

Growing in importance for the travel sector is China. In 2019 alone, over 155 million visitors spent more than $250 billion outside of its boundaries, making it the top source of international travellers before Covid-19. A floodgate is expected to open when China opens its borders to travellers who are currently deprived of global travel. So it comes as no surprise that the Gulf States are negotiating special terms with Chinese officials to establish more routes.

Proximity Travel:

Commonly referred to as ‘staycations,’ is the practice of travelling to locations nearby for a short break. Brands are actively seeking out close-by travellers and developing packages with unique features in response to the shortfalls in air traffic when air travel is not yet operating at its peak (or pre-COVID level) capacity. Understanding this market's needs is crucial to giving travel businesses the swift boost they require to resume their halted pace.

Revenge Travel:

With "escape" on their minds, consumers are coming out of lockdowns with a new, intensive post-pandemic type of travel bucket list. Travel for retribution has become popular, either to make up for lost ground or to comfort their pandemic-bound selves of the lockdown imposed upon them. Understanding the needs of these segments is crucial as they may differ drastically from the regular travellers. They may want to experience nature, culture, lifestyle, heritage, entertainment, a combination of these, or something else entirely.

Buddymoon:

A "friendcation," that allows one to take a fly-and-flop trip with peers, is growing in popularity. This enables you to go on vacation on a budget, much like going Dutch while dining out with friends. After all, budget is a driving factor when it comes to making travel plans. Buddymoon greatly aids in controlling it.

Brocation:

Much like Buddymoon, which is mostly associated with men, embrocation involves both independent men and women travelling in groups that are growing in popularity. Brands need to consider these groups alongside families and ask themselves if they are fit to accommodate their needs.

Bleisure:

While the concept isn’t new, mixing business with leisure is certainly evolving. Previously, business travels used to get over before the weekend began (Luggers filling a Friday evening, and Thursdays for most Gulf markets). Today business trips include parties and leisure and adventure activities too. Hotels that generally cater to business stays may want to look into amenities suited for leisure stays too.

Offbeat Travel:

This is a fresh approach to travel that seeks out “underrated” remote locales away from areas over-saturated with tourists, where life is more relaxed and languid. The travel sector can take advantage of this tendency to meet a dispersed demand. Tourists travel to off-beat locations to enjoy the experience, mix with the locals and avoid crowds.

Maxibreak:

Also known as the mini-sabbatical – it’s longer than your average holiday and the chance to find a new vocation while on vacation, perhaps as part of the ‘great resignation’. The industry can create great value by devising offers which cater to this trend which is different from the short-term travellers.

You can capture insights into the evolving travel trends with innovation and new-age market research from Borderless Access. The solutions under BA Insightz use the latest tech-driven methodologies that identify patterns in travel behaviour. They gather actionable data for brands on preferences for travel experiences.

Overall, the industry is optimistic, which is understandable given the fact that people believe they have recovered from an incident that no generation in existence has ever personally witnessed before. Both consumers and businesses want to reclaim lost ground and completely overhaul the sector.

[stilltravels]

Paris, Barcelona and Rome

PARIS, BARCELONA, AND ROME

11 Days

Pastries, tapas, and spaghetti alla carbonara are waiting on this tantalizing nine-night journey to France, Spain, and Italy. Guests will arrive in Paris, where they can stretch their legs in the Tuileries Garden, admire the interior of Sacré-Coeur, or take a day trip to the stunning Palace of Versailles. From there, it’s on to Barcelona—home to the magnificent La Sagrada Familia and the bustling pedestrian thoroughfare of La Rambla. Guests can browse the artworks on display in the Picasso Museum or stroll through whimsical Park Güell before heading on to explore the ancient wonders of Rome. After they’ve toured the Colosseum and marveled at the masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel, they can sample street food at Testaccio Market or rent a bike and pedal along the Appia Antica—one of the oldest roads in the Roman Empire.

Date - Aug 22 - Sept 1, 2024

What's Included

Seine River Cruise from Eiffel Tower

Paradis Latin - Dinner and Show Gustave Eiffel

Lunch at Eiffel Tower + Cruise + Paris City Tour PM

Private Full Day Barcelona Sightseeing - Car and Driver

Shared Tour: Sagrada Familia plus Artistic-The Best of Gaudi Half-day Tour

Flamenco Show with Dinner at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes

Shared Tour: Gothic Quarter Walking Tour

Private Cooking Workshop with Boqueria Market Visit Afternoon Tour in Barcelona

Small Group: Exclusive Cooking Lesson & Grocery Tour in Rome

Small Group: Cooking Class in Mazzano

Private Morning Half Day Rome Tour with Car & English Speaking Driver

Total Package Price - $2,517.00 (per person)

Call or text 6784691977 or email yourstilltravels@gmail.com

www.stilltravelsllc.com

**Prices and availability are subject to change

#france#parisfrance#barcelona#spain#rome#italy#italygram#slowtravel#slowtravelling#travelling#travellingram#travellingtheworld#travellife#luxurylife#luxurytravel#luxury#vacations#travels#travelinspiration#travelagent#travellovers#traveltheworld#stilltravels

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Tourism Market: Trends, Growth, and Industry Players

Introduction

The global tourism market is a dynamic sector that continually evolves in response to changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, and global events. As we delve into the current landscape, it is crucial to explore the tourism market size, growth patterns, industry trends, and key players that shape the sector's trajectory.

Tourism Market Size and Growth

The tourism market has witnessed remarkable growth over the past decade. According to the latest data the global international tourist arrivals reached 1.5 billion in 2022, marking a 4% increase from the previous year. The tourism industry's robust growth is attributed to factors such as increased disposable income, improved connectivity, and a growing middle class in emerging economies.

The COVID-19 pandemic, however, significantly impacted the industry in 2020 and 2021. International tourist arrivals plummeted by 74% in 2020, representing the largest decline in the industry's history. As the world recovers from the pandemic, tourism is experiencing a resurgence. The UNWTO estimates that international tourist arrivals will surpass pre-pandemic levels by 2023, emphasizing the sector's resilience.

Tourism and Hospitality Industry Trends

The tourism and hospitality industry is undergoing transformative changes driven by technological advancements and shifting consumer behaviors. One notable trend is the rise of sustainable tourism. Travelers are increasingly prioritizing destinations and businesses that adopt eco-friendly practices. Hotels, airlines, and tour operators are responding by implementing sustainable initiatives to meet the demands of environmentally conscious travelers.

Another trend shaping the industry is the integration of technology. From mobile apps for seamless bookings to virtual reality experiences, technology is enhancing the overall travel experience. The use of artificial intelligence and big data analytics is also becoming prevalent, enabling businesses to personalize services, predict consumer preferences, and optimize operations.

Tourism Industry Players

The tourism market is comprised of a diverse range of players, including governments, international organizations, tour operators, airlines, hotels, and online travel agencies (OTAs). Notable industry players such as Airbnb, Expedia, and Booking. com have disrupted traditional hospitality models, offering travelers a wide array of accommodation options and personalized experiences.

Governments play a crucial role in shaping the tourism landscape through policies, infrastructure development, and destination marketing. Collaborations between public and private sectors are essential to foster sustainable growth and address challenges such as over-tourism and environmental impact.

Tourism Market Analysis

A comprehensive analysis of the tourism market involves assessing key factors such as market dynamics, competitive landscape, and regulatory environments. The Asia-Pacific region has emerged as a powerhouse in the tourism sector, with countries like China, India, and Japan experiencing substantial growth. In contrast, established destinations in Europe and North America continue to attract millions of tourists annually.

The post-pandemic recovery has prompted a shift in travel preferences, with a surge in demand for domestic and outdoor experiences. Travelers are seeking off-the-beaten-path destinations, contributing to the diversification of the tourism market.

Travel and Tourism Industry Outlook

Looking ahead, the outlook for the travel and tourism industry is optimistic. The industry is expected to rebound strongly, driven by pent-up demand, increased vaccination rates, and the easing of travel restrictions. The global tourism market is projected to reach $11.38 trillion by 2027, growing at a CAGR of 6.1% from 2020 to 2027.

In conclusion, the tourism market is a vibrant and resilient sector that continues to adapt to changing circumstances. Understanding the market size, growth trends, industry players, and emerging dynamics is crucial for stakeholders navigating the evolving landscape. As the world reopens for travel, the industry's ability to innovate and embrace sustainable practices will play a pivotal role in shaping its future success.

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Don't Leave Home Without It: The Advantages of Having Travel Insurance

Introduction: Traveling can be an exciting and enriching experience, but it also comes with its fair share of risks. From flight cancellations to medical emergencies, unforeseen events can quickly turn a dream vacation into a nightmare. This is where travel insurance comes in. In this article, we will explore the many advantages of having travel insurance and why you should never leave home…

[tameblog]

Every year, as the darkness of the coldest months sinks in, the only thing that keeps me going is knowing that, sooner or later, I will take a break from my work routine, pack my bags, and travel somewhere I have likely never been before. Of course, I am not the only one to feel this way. The fact that most vacation bookings are made between the end of the holiday season and January is a clear indication of how our wanderlust peaks in winter, prompting us to search for the latest travel trends and the best destinations to tick off our bucket list as we wait impatiently to visit them first-hand.But travel trends, or the forecasting of the places, interests, and modalities that will define people's journeys in the year ahead, don't exclusively concern "travel". Quite the opposite, they are a reflection of society as a whole; a reaction to the myriad of phenomena that — however consciously — shape the way we live right now, from the rise of social media and AI, to the hyper-productivity demanded by contemporary workplaces, the unfolding of climate change, and pop culture. What does that mean? It means that, whether or not we are aware of it, the locations at the center of our travel itineraries, how we choose to reach them, and the reasons and purposes behind our vacations are not casual, but embody the state of our lives today. These travel trends reveal what drives and inspires us, what we fear we lack, and are therefore trying to get more of, and what we would like to become in the future.Merging exclusive insights from multiple industry experts, this Livingetc report doesn't bring mere advice on where to go in 2025: it also captures the nuances of our urge to explore, and outlines how we can continue to do so without harming the nature and the communities around us — all while putting extraordinary design at the forefront.At Amangiri, a 5-star luxury resort in Utah's dramatic Canyon Point, relaxation and adventure collide(Image credit: Amangiri. Design: Marwan Al-Sayed, Wendell Burnette, and Rick Joy)What Are the Biggest Travel Trends for 2025?While travel trends may differ from nation to nation, our look forward at the moods, hobbies, and countries that will serve as the real protagonists of 2025 gives a polarized portrait of the world at a glance. If, on the one hand, more and more wanderers seem to be seeking holidays that can grant them the peace of mind they miss in their everyday lives by chasing after wellness retreats, slow living destinations, and quieter getaways than the usual city breaks, for others, travel is all about adrenaline. Electrifying solo — or train-hopping — adventures and wilderness-absorbed accommodations that evoke thrill, awe, or even danger, are as appealing to the world's travel community as their calm-inducing counterparts.Despite their diverging end goals, both are brought together by the same rule: where we travel in 2025 is not that important; what matters is when, how, and why we do it. Shoulder seasons, or the periods between a region's peak season and offseason, are gaining momentum, with travelers opting for less canonical moments of the year to be on the move, or planning their escapes to coincide with the coldest — or hottest — months. This helps mitigate the environmental and social impact of over-tourism, also granting vacationers a more enjoyable stay. As for the how, 2025 travel trends are synonymous with restfulness, connection, and personalization: think curated itineraries that unearth hidden trails, blending art, culture, food, community, and sport into a multifaceted experience to be savored on your own or with your loved ones.Without further ado: these are 2025's biggest travel trends.1. CalmcationsImage 1 of 4The tranquil atmosphere at Hume, a wellness-focused club in Venice Beach, California(Image credit: Yoshihiro Makino and Hume. Design: Wisan Studio and Bricault Design)The sun-lit interiors of Californian winery Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)An historical building has been turned into a design lover's dream at Casa Salento, a calm retreat in southern Italy's Puglia region(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)Some of the crafty workshop held on site at Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)If 2025 travel trends could be summed up in a sentence, it would be: we need a break. And no, it is not the winter blues speaking, it is the global community as a whole. Two weeks into the year, "we're seeing a rise in clients booking 'quiet travel', with travelers seeking to escape the noise of everyday life — whether that's noise from content, work, other people, or even your own thoughts," Carolyn Weppler, Senior Vice President at Goway tells me.The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.Directing visitors towards more rural, secluded locations instead of bustling metropolises, these "calmcations" are characterized by a stronger immersion in nature and a focus on restoring our physical, mental, and emotional balance. Prioritizing our primal needs over visits to "must-see attractions", quiet travel invites us to put ourselves first — even, and especially, on vacation.Wellness RetreatsThis isn't a travel trend that is bound to fizzle as people settle into the year, but the opposite. In the coming weeks, "the demand for wellness-focused retreats is only set to rise as wanderers seek restorative experiences that prioritize their physical and mental well-being," says Rebecca Harley, Marketing Manager at Journeyscape. "Coastal destinations, mountain resorts, and lakeside lodges across North America are tailoring their offerings to include mindfulness workshops, yoga retreats, and nature-based therapies." Providing an antidote to the fast-paced digital world, these experiences emphasize "the importance of rejuvenation, making them particularly attractive to both solo adventurers and groups seeking meaningful connection."The bathed-in-sunlight gardens of Nice's Hôtel du Couvent, a leading example of contemporary agrotourism(Image credit: Giulio Ghirardi. Courtesy of Hôtel du Couvent. Design: Tom Stuart-Smith Ltd and Scape Design)Agrotourism and Natural Wonders GetawaysPlaces like Fairfield's Caymus-Suisun, a sun-baked Californian winery spectacularly crafted by local design studio The Bureau, offer an alternative way of embracing the 'calmcation' concept. Open for food and wine tastings, here you can "pick fruit in our orchards, and walk the vineyards and vegetable garden," explain Founders Chuck, Charlie, and Jenny Wagner, whose project falls under the newly surfacing category of 'agrotourism'.In recent years, more hotels and resorts have started integrating visits to kitchen gardens and connected farms in their offering, showcasing the quality of their produce and facilitating enriching exchanges between staff and visitors. At Poggi del Sasso's Castello di Vicarello, for example, "you'll enjoy farm-to-table dining with organic ingredients sourced directly from the estate's gardens and olive groves," East End Taste founder Vanessa Gordon tells me, recalling her sojourn at the property. "With over 50 varieties of vegetables and 30 aromatic herbs, their chefs craft authentic Tuscan dishes that highlight the freshest local flavors, and the castle even has their own wine that they bottle and sell."Another local resort, Rosewood's Castiglion del Bosco, "utilizes a similar approach on a grander scale," she says. "They grow much of their own herbs in a garden that guests can walk around, besides having onsite cooking classes and truffle hunting classes, and a winery near the premises." Particularly popular in American states like Arizona and California, and Italy's evergreen Trentino, Tuscany, and Umbria, 'agrotourism' is just another form of quiet travel. This also counts for "natural wonders getaways," explains Weppler. "Think of excursions to places like Kenya's Maasai Mara and Serengeti, Australia's Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, Mount Fuji, the Alaska Glaciers, and the Swiss Alps."2. Slow TravelImage 1 of 6An aerial view of Uzbekistan's mountain ranges, one of the unexpected destinations predicted to be big this year(Image credit: Getty Images)The color-block hotel lobby of Busan's Coolest Hotel lives up to the stay's name(Image credit: Studio SIM. Courtesy of The Coolest Hotel. Design: Jongkim Design Studio and Design Madonna)Uzbekistan's rich cultural heritage and history is tangible in its colorfully intricate architecture(Image credit: Getty Images)The biggest room at The Bull Charlbury makes the perfect romantic retreat for winter wanderers(Image credit: The Bull Charlbury. Design: Phil Winser and James Gummer)The countryside of Vietnam, another nation believed to be on the traveling community's radar in 2025(Image credit: Getty Images)The Daniel Arsham-designed Kohler cabin in Wisconsin is the go-to destination for an arty staycation(Image credit: Kohler Co. Design: Daniel Arsham)While quite travel values repose and regeneration through activities that can favor a better quality of life, slow travel extends that invigorating effect to the places we visit, too. Contrary to the past, "2025 is seeing a real move towards less rushed vacations; stays that can foster deeper interactions with a place than whistle-stop tours to tick off bucket-list sights," Harley explains. As one of the biggest travel trends of 2025, slow travel wants us to reassess what it actually means to travel, making us aware of the impact of our choices.Since the pandemic, "people seem to be much more thoughtful about how they travel," Brenda Beltrán, Travel Writer and Content Manager at Holafly, tells me. They don't just look for experiences "that feel personal and that matter to them," she adds, "but they are also more inclined to engage with local cultures, make sustainable choices, and spend more time in one place."Staycations'Staycations', or vacations spent in our home country rather than abroad, have first come to the fore amid the post-COVID-19 limbo, when people didn't brave venturing outside of national borders for fear of unexpected negative repercussions. Nearly five years on since the outbreak, and with overseas travel now back in full force, this trend hasn't got any less prominent. Instead, it has just become one of the best, most popular, and most sustainable, ways to travel.According to recent research from Away Resorts, 52% of UK travelers will spend their time off somewhere in the country this year, while in the US, domestic travel is "projected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, driven by a renewed interest in local experiences". Staycation options are as varied as ever, and not always requiring you to jump on a plane in order to reach them, rather eco-conscious, too.Still wondering where to go in 2025? You could opt for an under-the-radar lodge, like Livingetc's Style Editor Julia Demer did when she spent a weekend at the surreally beautiful Daniel Arsham's Kohler cabin, or, drawing on insights from Campspot's (Re)Creation Vacation 2025 Trend Outlook, drive to the 'nostalgic hotspots' expected to enjoy a renaissance as some of this year's most popular outdoor destinations, including West Yellowstone, Traverse City, Miami, Bar Harbor, and Grand Canyon. You could check if the minimalist chic guesthouses of Danish furniture and homeware brand Vipp have landed anywhere near you, making them your refuge for a day or two. Alternatively, if you are in Britain, you might indulge in the design-forward resurgence of historical pubs with rooms — as I did during a recent stay at the modern rustic décor idyll that is The Bull Charlbury.An underrated cultural and natural wonder, Cambodia is set to be one of this year's most sought-after destinations(Image credit: Getty Images)Off-the-Beaten-PathAlthough it might sound counterintuitive, going for unconventional and less traveled destinations — however remote those might be — is yet another side of the slow travel movement. Making a conscious effort not to flock in mass to the ever-crowded Rome, Paris, Barcelona, and New York, instead booking longer holidays in 'off-the-beaten-path' regions, might well be the way forward, or at least that is what experts suggest in regards to travel 2025 trend predictions. So what are some of the best places to visit this year if you want to give slow travel a go? Get ready to be spoilt for choice."A less crowded alternative to Dubrovnik in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina is being heralded as the rising star of The Balkans for 2025," says Wild Frontiers' Clare Tobin, who mentions its awe-inspiring nature, burgeoning wine industry, and scenic cycle routes as some of its greatest highlights. But the country isn't the only Eastern European location on the rise. In Latvia, "unspoiled beaches, ancient castles and Europe's widest waterfall" are all one booking away, Travelzoo's Communications Director Cat Jordan explains, while Gulet Cruise Montenegro's Alexandra Iordan looks at "Montenegro's untouched nature, rich history, and vibrant culture" as the secrets to a perfect getaway.Meanwhile, underrated destinations in Central and East Asia are gaining momentum, too. For Explore Worldwide's Michael Edwards, "South Korea is the place to visit" this year. "A relatively unexplored slice of Asia, the country seamlessly juxtaposes over 5,000 years of culture and history with all things hyper-modern," he explains. Check the retro-futuristic lobby and rooms of Busan's color-block Coolest Hotel and you will know Edwards' prediction is spot on.Still, there are more Asian explorations to try out this year. According to James Adkin, Product Manager at Explore Worldwide, "there's a huge amount of interest in the Silk Road at the moment, both culturally and historically," with bookings to Uzbekistan rising up 52% compared to last year. Countries like Cambodia, with its "untouched beaches and breathtaking scenery", and abundant wildlife, "tick several travel boxes," explains Jordan, while Holiday Extras' has Vietnam's Côn Đảo archipelago down as the best place to visit between November and April 2025.3. Passion — and Event — TourismImage 1 of 4Osaka, the host of the 2025 EXPO, is known for its vibrant nightlife and culinary scene, as well as for its immersive natural parks(Image credit: Getty Images)Hotel Peter and Paul is one of New Orleans' coolest design hotels, making it the perfect stay for travelers wanting to enjoy the 2025 Super Bowl LIX in style(Image credit: Hotel Peter and Paul. Design: StudioWTA, ASH NYC, and Nathalie Jordi)Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim's "The Form" (2024), one of the colossal artworks presented as part of Frieze Sculpture, which returns to London 15-19 October 2025 alongside Frieze and Frieze Masters(Image credit: Linda Nylind. Courtesy of Linda Nylind and Frieze)The minimalist, chic interiors of Hotel Volkshaus Basel, a must-know destination for creatives looking to attend the Basel 2025 Eurovision (13-17 May) or Art Basel 2025 (19-22 June)(Image credit: Hotel Volkshaus Basel. Design: Herzog & de Meuron)Last year, record-smashing pop singer Taylor Swift's North American Eras Tour had a $2 billion impact on the US economy, with tour locations seeing direct correlation between concert dates and spikes in hotel bookings (Check out Livingetc's interiors-led deep dive into Taylor Swift property to catch a glimpse of her estate empire). In Philadelphia, for example, May was the strongest hotel revenue month, coinciding with the music artist's presence in town. Across Europe, hotel prices in concert cities increased by an average of 44%, while in Singapore alone, inbound flights, accommodation bookings, and tours to local attractions grew by 186%, 462%, and 2,373% during the local leg of the Eras Tour, Trip.com reported.For LaDell Carter, Lead Luxury Lifestyle Travel Designer and Founder of Royal Expression Travels, passion-led tourism is not going anywhere in 2025. "Travel has always been an emotional purchase, but now more than ever, it's an act of self-prioritization and purpose," she tells me. Today, "it is not just about where people go, but why they are going and how their unique needs are met along the way." Rebecca Recommends's Rebecca Slater couldn't agree more. "This year we expect to see travel plans centered around major events, and not just concerts," the Founder explains. "Whether it's witnessing the Sydney New Year's Eve Fireworks, catching the Super Bowl LIX action in New Orleans, or checking off a bucket list trip at the Monaco Grand Prix, there are numerous significant events around the world that are already attracting attention."Already noted in our books are the Frieze fairs (20-23 February, Los Angeles. 7-11 May, New York. 15-19 October, London); the Expo 2025 (13 April-13 October 2025), with Osaka, Japan's second-largest city, playing as host; the Eurovision Song Contest (13-17 May 2025), which lands in Basel, Switzerland's creative capital, in late spring, a month ahead of the Art Basel exhibition (19-22 June 2025); Milan Design Week (7-13 April 2025), including Salone del Mobile; and the long-anticipated reunion tour of Oasis, coming to the UK 4 July-17 August 2025.When it comes to passion tourism, which doesn't merely include trips related to specific events, but encompasses a thorough (and recently, even AI-assisted) personalization of all aspects of the journey, the secret "lies in the details," Carter explains. This 2025 travel trend is all about "delving into the intricacies of each traveler's passions and preferences," she adds. "Take Canyon Ranch in Arizona, for example. When I visited with colleagues, it didn't feel like a group trip — it was all about my personal path. From curated workout routines to tailored wellness consultations, every moment was designed around me. Their ambassador had planned everything in advance, and by the time I arrived, it felt like they had known me for years." That, for her, is "the magic of passion-led travel — it transforms a destination into a deeply personal journey."4. Adventure TravelImage 1 of 8Luxury group Belmond is at the forefront of the train renaissance, and the images of its rail solutions speak for themselves(Image credit: Belmond)The interiors are a one-way-ticket to an Agatha Christie's mystery(Image credit: Belmond)The brutalist exterior of Paradero Todos Santos, an experiential luxury hotel nestled in the Mexican desert(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)Our Habitas AlUla, a sustainable desert resort housed within the orangey dunes of the Ashar Valley, Saudi Arabia(Image credit: Our Habitas AlUla. Design: Habitas)The breathtaking views surrounding Paradero Todos Santos(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)The ferrata trail near Amangiri, a spectacular luxury resort in Canyon Point, Utah(Image credit: Amangiri)Another detail from a Belmond train, captured as it speeds by(Image credit: Belmond)... and its atmospheric golden hour(Image credit: Belmond)If there's a leitmotif that permeates all the travel 2025 trends, it is a desire for experiences that feel as challenging and personal as they are unforgettable. It is the rise of the "adventure travel boom", which, as Much Better Adventures CMO and Co-Founder Sam Bruce puts it, "is fueled by those craving immersive experiences and an escape from the humdrum of daily life." For the travel expert, this trend doesn't just offer physical, mental, and social benefits, but when done right, "it boosts local economies far more sustainably than traditional tourism," he adds.Traditionally, adventure travel comprises anything from "going kayaking and wildlife spotting" to "hiking in less-visited regions of Europe". This Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report gives it the design treatment: think lavishly furnished, flashing trains straight out of an Agatha Christie thriller, luxury glamping resorts and cabins immersed in the glowing Arabian desert, and opencast Mexican resorts bringing brutalist interiors to life through safari tours, art itineraries, as well as fitness, surf, and cooking classes.Ditch the Plane for the Train2025 might as well be called the year of the train. Why? Not only is the British Railway celebrating its 200th anniversary, but a whole new range of retro-inspired luxury trains, inspired by the legendary 1883 Orient Express and bringing its Art Deco design style into the contemporary, are coming to multiple locations across the globe, making traveling as timeless and captivating as it has ever been.Among such anticipated openings are those of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, an all-Italian designed train created to connect Rome to destinations like Venice and Sicily, with décor reviving the creative genius of 1960s to 1970s icons Gio Ponti, Nanda Vigo, and Gae Aulenti signed by Dimorestudio; the Britannic Explorer, the latest newcomer to Belmond's dazzling railway portfolio, and England and Wales' first luxury sleeper train; SJ Norge's Norient Express, promising a six-day adventure through some of Norway's most scenic landscapes; the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, which will take you to the discovery of one of the world's most ancient trading network and the marvels sited along it; and the American Dreamstar Lines, a nightly luxury train operating between Los Angeles and San Francisco, with interiors by Designworks.From the vibrant Seven Stars in Kyushu, an emblem of Japan's time-traveling craftsmanship, to the Wes Anderson-esque Maharajas' Express, offering exclusive journeys across North-West and Central India, and South Africa's Rovos Rail, guiding you across the Rainbow Nation through Namibia and Tanzania, the world has far more trains today than you would expect it to have — and they are taking us back to the future! For Journeyscape's Rebecca Harley, this trend reflects "a growing urge for sustainable exploration and meaningful experiences." In Canada, "travelers seek to reduce their carbon footprint while taking in the country's breathtaking landscapes," she says, adding that locations like the Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec have all become more easily accessible through iconic routes such as Via Rail. "Trains offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and scenic immersion, making an especially appealing option for solo travelers who prioritize safety and ease."From hiking, climbing, and boating, to yoga and horseback riding, everything is possible at AmangiriGoing SoloHarley's mention of solo travelers isn't in any way coincidental. According to Intrepid Travel CCO Leigh Barnes, "the desire to travel is so strong that most young adults may not be waiting for friends, family, or anyone else to book their trip, and are willing to go solo." A recent study conducted by the company showed that "nearly four in five US adults say they have taken or would be interested in taking a solo trip, with nearly nine in ten adults aged 18-35 saying the same," he adds. For Charnell Ward, PR Specialist at Pearl Lemon Adventures, solo travelers are among the greatest protagonists of the 2025 travel trends: "they are increasingly seeking experiences that balance independence with a sense of community, such as joining wellness retreats or adventure tours where connections form naturally," she says.Because of their wide-ranging on-site activities and just as impressive modern interior design, we think that destinations like Paradero Todos Santos, rising at the very tip of the Baja California Sur state, the Ashar Valley's Our Habitas AlUla resort and Caravan accommodations, and the Utah-based Amangiri "adrenaline-fueled adventure and peaceful desert retreats" would make the ultimate solution for tasteful solo travelers with insatiable wanderlust.5. When, Not WhereImage 1 of 8The sophisticated mountain feel of the cōmodo, a design gem in the Austrian Alps(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)... and its snowy views(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)The modern rustic feel of Casa Cook North Coast, an Egyptian resort with style to spare(Image credit: Casa Cook North Coast. Design: Vision Alphabet and Shehab A. Mazhar Architects)The aurora borealis, as experienced from Welcome Beyond's Aurora Cabin in Laupstad, Norway(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)The modernist exterior of Boca de Agua, a stunning, tropical Mexican retreat(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)The view from one of the suites of the Casa Cook El Gouna, sited on the Red Sea(Image credit: Casa Cook El Gouna. Design: Common Architecture)Boca de Agua's iconic interiors(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)Perhaps the biggest 2025 travel trend of them all, 'When, Not Where' sees the world's wanderers plan their much-awaited getaways as a way out of extreme temperatures and the frenzy of everyday life. Rather than traveling at the peak of summer, or winter, more people seem to be interested in "uncovering a different side to a destination by exploring outside of conventional times," Ayaka Hasegawa, PR Manager at Luxury Tour Operator Black Tomato, tells me.Joining 'cool-' and 'warmcations' — or the journeys we take to foreign destinations in an attempt to avoid the heat and frost in our countries — respectively, "noctourism has emerged as a micro trend of its own", with people wandering around their chosen holiday locations at night "to escape daytime crowds, witness once-in-a-lifetime natural phenomena, and enjoy the place at a more relaxed pace," adds the expert. Meanwhile, the growing popularity of the off- and shoulder seasons, a symptom of the shift towards more sustainable ways of conceiving travel, allows travelers to interact with the beauty of coveted destinations like New Zealand and Australia — previously overlooked during the cooler months — in completely new ways.If places like Egypt's Common Architecture-designed Casa Cook El Gouna and the modernist paradise of Balacar's Boca de Agua grant you a balmy respite from winter's below-zero temperatures, Welcome Beyond's Scandinavian design-inspired properties such as The Cliff in Quebec and Laupstad's Aurora Cabin are your portal into nature's wonders and interior (as well as exterior) coolness.2025 has only just begun, but we know travel will be a huge part of it. Whether pointing you in the direction of the best places to visit this year and the most design-worthy accommodations available there, or convincing you to take up solo travel for the very first time, we hope this Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report has given you a reason to be on the move — whether literally or metaphorically.With climate change manifesting dramatically as we write, this year's travel predictions urge us to focus on the when, how, and why of tourism far more than on the where alone. Let this guide you in planning journeys that can nurture you and your close ones as much as they contribute sensibly to the environment around you. And if you are stuck for inspiration, head to our hotel design pages, your online directory to stylish escapism. Source link

[ramestoryworld]

Every year, as the darkness of the coldest months sinks in, the only thing that keeps me going is knowing that, sooner or later, I will take a break from my work routine, pack my bags, and travel somewhere I have likely never been before. Of course, I am not the only one to feel this way. The fact that most vacation bookings are made between the end of the holiday season and January is a clear indication of how our wanderlust peaks in winter, prompting us to search for the latest travel trends and the best destinations to tick off our bucket list as we wait impatiently to visit them first-hand.But travel trends, or the forecasting of the places, interests, and modalities that will define people's journeys in the year ahead, don't exclusively concern "travel". Quite the opposite, they are a reflection of society as a whole; a reaction to the myriad of phenomena that — however consciously — shape the way we live right now, from the rise of social media and AI, to the hyper-productivity demanded by contemporary workplaces, the unfolding of climate change, and pop culture. What does that mean? It means that, whether or not we are aware of it, the locations at the center of our travel itineraries, how we choose to reach them, and the reasons and purposes behind our vacations are not casual, but embody the state of our lives today. These travel trends reveal what drives and inspires us, what we fear we lack, and are therefore trying to get more of, and what we would like to become in the future.Merging exclusive insights from multiple industry experts, this Livingetc report doesn't bring mere advice on where to go in 2025: it also captures the nuances of our urge to explore, and outlines how we can continue to do so without harming the nature and the communities around us — all while putting extraordinary design at the forefront.At Amangiri, a 5-star luxury resort in Utah's dramatic Canyon Point, relaxation and adventure collide(Image credit: Amangiri. Design: Marwan Al-Sayed, Wendell Burnette, and Rick Joy)What Are the Biggest Travel Trends for 2025?While travel trends may differ from nation to nation, our look forward at the moods, hobbies, and countries that will serve as the real protagonists of 2025 gives a polarized portrait of the world at a glance. If, on the one hand, more and more wanderers seem to be seeking holidays that can grant them the peace of mind they miss in their everyday lives by chasing after wellness retreats, slow living destinations, and quieter getaways than the usual city breaks, for others, travel is all about adrenaline. Electrifying solo — or train-hopping — adventures and wilderness-absorbed accommodations that evoke thrill, awe, or even danger, are as appealing to the world's travel community as their calm-inducing counterparts.Despite their diverging end goals, both are brought together by the same rule: where we travel in 2025 is not that important; what matters is when, how, and why we do it. Shoulder seasons, or the periods between a region's peak season and offseason, are gaining momentum, with travelers opting for less canonical moments of the year to be on the move, or planning their escapes to coincide with the coldest — or hottest — months. This helps mitigate the environmental and social impact of over-tourism, also granting vacationers a more enjoyable stay. As for the how, 2025 travel trends are synonymous with restfulness, connection, and personalization: think curated itineraries that unearth hidden trails, blending art, culture, food, community, and sport into a multifaceted experience to be savored on your own or with your loved ones.Without further ado: these are 2025's biggest travel trends.1. CalmcationsImage 1 of 4The tranquil atmosphere at Hume, a wellness-focused club in Venice Beach, California(Image credit: Yoshihiro Makino and Hume. Design: Wisan Studio and Bricault Design)The sun-lit interiors of Californian winery Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)An historical building has been turned into a design lover's dream at Casa Salento, a calm retreat in southern Italy's Puglia region(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)Some of the crafty workshop held on site at Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)If 2025 travel trends could be summed up in a sentence, it would be: we need a break. And no, it is not the winter blues speaking, it is the global community as a whole. Two weeks into the year, "we're seeing a rise in clients booking 'quiet travel', with travelers seeking to escape the noise of everyday life — whether that's noise from content, work, other people, or even your own thoughts," Carolyn Weppler, Senior Vice President at Goway tells me.The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.Directing visitors towards more rural, secluded locations instead of bustling metropolises, these "calmcations" are characterized by a stronger immersion in nature and a focus on restoring our physical, mental, and emotional balance. Prioritizing our primal needs over visits to "must-see attractions", quiet travel invites us to put ourselves first — even, and especially, on vacation.Wellness RetreatsThis isn't a travel trend that is bound to fizzle as people settle into the year, but the opposite. In the coming weeks, "the demand for wellness-focused retreats is only set to rise as wanderers seek restorative experiences that prioritize their physical and mental well-being," says Rebecca Harley, Marketing Manager at Journeyscape. "Coastal destinations, mountain resorts, and lakeside lodges across North America are tailoring their offerings to include mindfulness workshops, yoga retreats, and nature-based therapies." Providing an antidote to the fast-paced digital world, these experiences emphasize "the importance of rejuvenation, making them particularly attractive to both solo adventurers and groups seeking meaningful connection."The bathed-in-sunlight gardens of Nice's Hôtel du Couvent, a leading example of contemporary agrotourism(Image credit: Giulio Ghirardi. Courtesy of Hôtel du Couvent. Design: Tom Stuart-Smith Ltd and Scape Design)Agrotourism and Natural Wonders GetawaysPlaces like Fairfield's Caymus-Suisun, a sun-baked Californian winery spectacularly crafted by local design studio The Bureau, offer an alternative way of embracing the 'calmcation' concept. Open for food and wine tastings, here you can "pick fruit in our orchards, and walk the vineyards and vegetable garden," explain Founders Chuck, Charlie, and Jenny Wagner, whose project falls under the newly surfacing category of 'agrotourism'.In recent years, more hotels and resorts have started integrating visits to kitchen gardens and connected farms in their offering, showcasing the quality of their produce and facilitating enriching exchanges between staff and visitors. At Poggi del Sasso's Castello di Vicarello, for example, "you'll enjoy farm-to-table dining with organic ingredients sourced directly from the estate's gardens and olive groves," East End Taste founder Vanessa Gordon tells me, recalling her sojourn at the property. "With over 50 varieties of vegetables and 30 aromatic herbs, their chefs craft authentic Tuscan dishes that highlight the freshest local flavors, and the castle even has their own wine that they bottle and sell."Another local resort, Rosewood's Castiglion del Bosco, "utilizes a similar approach on a grander scale," she says. "They grow much of their own herbs in a garden that guests can walk around, besides having onsite cooking classes and truffle hunting classes, and a winery near the premises." Particularly popular in American states like Arizona and California, and Italy's evergreen Trentino, Tuscany, and Umbria, 'agrotourism' is just another form of quiet travel. This also counts for "natural wonders getaways," explains Weppler. "Think of excursions to places like Kenya's Maasai Mara and Serengeti, Australia's Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, Mount Fuji, the Alaska Glaciers, and the Swiss Alps."2. Slow TravelImage 1 of 6An aerial view of Uzbekistan's mountain ranges, one of the unexpected destinations predicted to be big this year(Image credit: Getty Images)The color-block hotel lobby of Busan's Coolest Hotel lives up to the stay's name(Image credit: Studio SIM. Courtesy of The Coolest Hotel. Design: Jongkim Design Studio and Design Madonna)Uzbekistan's rich cultural heritage and history is tangible in its colorfully intricate architecture(Image credit: Getty Images)The biggest room at The Bull Charlbury makes the perfect romantic retreat for winter wanderers(Image credit: The Bull Charlbury. Design: Phil Winser and James Gummer)The countryside of Vietnam, another nation believed to be on the traveling community's radar in 2025(Image credit: Getty Images)The Daniel Arsham-designed Kohler cabin in Wisconsin is the go-to destination for an arty staycation(Image credit: Kohler Co. Design: Daniel Arsham)While quite travel values repose and regeneration through activities that can favor a better quality of life, slow travel extends that invigorating effect to the places we visit, too. Contrary to the past, "2025 is seeing a real move towards less rushed vacations; stays that can foster deeper interactions with a place than whistle-stop tours to tick off bucket-list sights," Harley explains. As one of the biggest travel trends of 2025, slow travel wants us to reassess what it actually means to travel, making us aware of the impact of our choices.Since the pandemic, "people seem to be much more thoughtful about how they travel," Brenda Beltrán, Travel Writer and Content Manager at Holafly, tells me. They don't just look for experiences "that feel personal and that matter to them," she adds, "but they are also more inclined to engage with local cultures, make sustainable choices, and spend more time in one place."Staycations'Staycations', or vacations spent in our home country rather than abroad, have first come to the fore amid the post-COVID-19 limbo, when people didn't brave venturing outside of national borders for fear of unexpected negative repercussions. Nearly five years on since the outbreak, and with overseas travel now back in full force, this trend hasn't got any less prominent. Instead, it has just become one of the best, most popular, and most sustainable, ways to travel.According to recent research from Away Resorts, 52% of UK travelers will spend their time off somewhere in the country this year, while in the US, domestic travel is "projected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, driven by a renewed interest in local experiences". Staycation options are as varied as ever, and not always requiring you to jump on a plane in order to reach them, rather eco-conscious, too.Still wondering where to go in 2025? You could opt for an under-the-radar lodge, like Livingetc's Style Editor Julia Demer did when she spent a weekend at the surreally beautiful Daniel Arsham's Kohler cabin, or, drawing on insights from Campspot's (Re)Creation Vacation 2025 Trend Outlook, drive to the 'nostalgic hotspots' expected to enjoy a renaissance as some of this year's most popular outdoor destinations, including West Yellowstone, Traverse City, Miami, Bar Harbor, and Grand Canyon. You could check if the minimalist chic guesthouses of Danish furniture and homeware brand Vipp have landed anywhere near you, making them your refuge for a day or two. Alternatively, if you are in Britain, you might indulge in the design-forward resurgence of historical pubs with rooms — as I did during a recent stay at the modern rustic décor idyll that is The Bull Charlbury.An underrated cultural and natural wonder, Cambodia is set to be one of this year's most sought-after destinations(Image credit: Getty Images)Off-the-Beaten-PathAlthough it might sound counterintuitive, going for unconventional and less traveled destinations — however remote those might be — is yet another side of the slow travel movement. Making a conscious effort not to flock in mass to the ever-crowded Rome, Paris, Barcelona, and New York, instead booking longer holidays in 'off-the-beaten-path' regions, might well be the way forward, or at least that is what experts suggest in regards to travel 2025 trend predictions. So what are some of the best places to visit this year if you want to give slow travel a go? Get ready to be spoilt for choice."A less crowded alternative to Dubrovnik in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina is being heralded as the rising star of The Balkans for 2025," says Wild Frontiers' Clare Tobin, who mentions its awe-inspiring nature, burgeoning wine industry, and scenic cycle routes as some of its greatest highlights. But the country isn't the only Eastern European location on the rise. In Latvia, "unspoiled beaches, ancient castles and Europe's widest waterfall" are all one booking away, Travelzoo's Communications Director Cat Jordan explains, while Gulet Cruise Montenegro's Alexandra Iordan looks at "Montenegro's untouched nature, rich history, and vibrant culture" as the secrets to a perfect getaway.Meanwhile, underrated destinations in Central and East Asia are gaining momentum, too. For Explore Worldwide's Michael Edwards, "South Korea is the place to visit" this year. "A relatively unexplored slice of Asia, the country seamlessly juxtaposes over 5,000 years of culture and history with all things hyper-modern," he explains. Check the retro-futuristic lobby and rooms of Busan's color-block Coolest Hotel and you will know Edwards' prediction is spot on.Still, there are more Asian explorations to try out this year. According to James Adkin, Product Manager at Explore Worldwide, "there's a huge amount of interest in the Silk Road at the moment, both culturally and historically," with bookings to Uzbekistan rising up 52% compared to last year. Countries like Cambodia, with its "untouched beaches and breathtaking scenery", and abundant wildlife, "tick several travel boxes," explains Jordan, while Holiday Extras' has Vietnam's Côn Đảo archipelago down as the best place to visit between November and April 2025.3. Passion — and Event — TourismImage 1 of 4Osaka, the host of the 2025 EXPO, is known for its vibrant nightlife and culinary scene, as well as for its immersive natural parks(Image credit: Getty Images)Hotel Peter and Paul is one of New Orleans' coolest design hotels, making it the perfect stay for travelers wanting to enjoy the 2025 Super Bowl LIX in style(Image credit: Hotel Peter and Paul. Design: StudioWTA, ASH NYC, and Nathalie Jordi)Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim's "The Form" (2024), one of the colossal artworks presented as part of Frieze Sculpture, which returns to London 15-19 October 2025 alongside Frieze and Frieze Masters(Image credit: Linda Nylind. Courtesy of Linda Nylind and Frieze)The minimalist, chic interiors of Hotel Volkshaus Basel, a must-know destination for creatives looking to attend the Basel 2025 Eurovision (13-17 May) or Art Basel 2025 (19-22 June)(Image credit: Hotel Volkshaus Basel. Design: Herzog & de Meuron)Last year, record-smashing pop singer Taylor Swift's North American Eras Tour had a $2 billion impact on the US economy, with tour locations seeing direct correlation between concert dates and spikes in hotel bookings (Check out Livingetc's interiors-led deep dive into Taylor Swift property to catch a glimpse of her estate empire). In Philadelphia, for example, May was the strongest hotel revenue month, coinciding with the music artist's presence in town. Across Europe, hotel prices in concert cities increased by an average of 44%, while in Singapore alone, inbound flights, accommodation bookings, and tours to local attractions grew by 186%, 462%, and 2,373% during the local leg of the Eras Tour, Trip.com reported.For LaDell Carter, Lead Luxury Lifestyle Travel Designer and Founder of Royal Expression Travels, passion-led tourism is not going anywhere in 2025. "Travel has always been an emotional purchase, but now more than ever, it's an act of self-prioritization and purpose," she tells me. Today, "it is not just about where people go, but why they are going and how their unique needs are met along the way." Rebecca Recommends's Rebecca Slater couldn't agree more. "This year we expect to see travel plans centered around major events, and not just concerts," the Founder explains. "Whether it's witnessing the Sydney New Year's Eve Fireworks, catching the Super Bowl LIX action in New Orleans, or checking off a bucket list trip at the Monaco Grand Prix, there are numerous significant events around the world that are already attracting attention."Already noted in our books are the Frieze fairs (20-23 February, Los Angeles. 7-11 May, New York. 15-19 October, London); the Expo 2025 (13 April-13 October 2025), with Osaka, Japan's second-largest city, playing as host; the Eurovision Song Contest (13-17 May 2025), which lands in Basel, Switzerland's creative capital, in late spring, a month ahead of the Art Basel exhibition (19-22 June 2025); Milan Design Week (7-13 April 2025), including Salone del Mobile; and the long-anticipated reunion tour of Oasis, coming to the UK 4 July-17 August 2025.When it comes to passion tourism, which doesn't merely include trips related to specific events, but encompasses a thorough (and recently, even AI-assisted) personalization of all aspects of the journey, the secret "lies in the details," Carter explains. This 2025 travel trend is all about "delving into the intricacies of each traveler's passions and preferences," she adds. "Take Canyon Ranch in Arizona, for example. When I visited with colleagues, it didn't feel like a group trip — it was all about my personal path. From curated workout routines to tailored wellness consultations, every moment was designed around me. Their ambassador had planned everything in advance, and by the time I arrived, it felt like they had known me for years." That, for her, is "the magic of passion-led travel — it transforms a destination into a deeply personal journey."4. Adventure TravelImage 1 of 8Luxury group Belmond is at the forefront of the train renaissance, and the images of its rail solutions speak for themselves(Image credit: Belmond)The interiors are a one-way-ticket to an Agatha Christie's mystery(Image credit: Belmond)The brutalist exterior of Paradero Todos Santos, an experiential luxury hotel nestled in the Mexican desert(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)Our Habitas AlUla, a sustainable desert resort housed within the orangey dunes of the Ashar Valley, Saudi Arabia(Image credit: Our Habitas AlUla. Design: Habitas)The breathtaking views surrounding Paradero Todos Santos(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)The ferrata trail near Amangiri, a spectacular luxury resort in Canyon Point, Utah(Image credit: Amangiri)Another detail from a Belmond train, captured as it speeds by(Image credit: Belmond)... and its atmospheric golden hour(Image credit: Belmond)If there's a leitmotif that permeates all the travel 2025 trends, it is a desire for experiences that feel as challenging and personal as they are unforgettable. It is the rise of the "adventure travel boom", which, as Much Better Adventures CMO and Co-Founder Sam Bruce puts it, "is fueled by those craving immersive experiences and an escape from the humdrum of daily life." For the travel expert, this trend doesn't just offer physical, mental, and social benefits, but when done right, "it boosts local economies far more sustainably than traditional tourism," he adds.Traditionally, adventure travel comprises anything from "going kayaking and wildlife spotting" to "hiking in less-visited regions of Europe". This Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report gives it the design treatment: think lavishly furnished, flashing trains straight out of an Agatha Christie thriller, luxury glamping resorts and cabins immersed in the glowing Arabian desert, and opencast Mexican resorts bringing brutalist interiors to life through safari tours, art itineraries, as well as fitness, surf, and cooking classes.Ditch the Plane for the Train2025 might as well be called the year of the train. Why? Not only is the British Railway celebrating its 200th anniversary, but a whole new range of retro-inspired luxury trains, inspired by the legendary 1883 Orient Express and bringing its Art Deco design style into the contemporary, are coming to multiple locations across the globe, making traveling as timeless and captivating as it has ever been.Among such anticipated openings are those of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, an all-Italian designed train created to connect Rome to destinations like Venice and Sicily, with décor reviving the creative genius of 1960s to 1970s icons Gio Ponti, Nanda Vigo, and Gae Aulenti signed by Dimorestudio; the Britannic Explorer, the latest newcomer to Belmond's dazzling railway portfolio, and England and Wales' first luxury sleeper train; SJ Norge's Norient Express, promising a six-day adventure through some of Norway's most scenic landscapes; the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, which will take you to the discovery of one of the world's most ancient trading network and the marvels sited along it; and the American Dreamstar Lines, a nightly luxury train operating between Los Angeles and San Francisco, with interiors by Designworks.From the vibrant Seven Stars in Kyushu, an emblem of Japan's time-traveling craftsmanship, to the Wes Anderson-esque Maharajas' Express, offering exclusive journeys across North-West and Central India, and South Africa's Rovos Rail, guiding you across the Rainbow Nation through Namibia and Tanzania, the world has far more trains today than you would expect it to have — and they are taking us back to the future! For Journeyscape's Rebecca Harley, this trend reflects "a growing urge for sustainable exploration and meaningful experiences." In Canada, "travelers seek to reduce their carbon footprint while taking in the country's breathtaking landscapes," she says, adding that locations like the Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec have all become more easily accessible through iconic routes such as Via Rail. "Trains offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and scenic immersion, making an especially appealing option for solo travelers who prioritize safety and ease."From hiking, climbing, and boating, to yoga and horseback riding, everything is possible at AmangiriGoing SoloHarley's mention of solo travelers isn't in any way coincidental. According to Intrepid Travel CCO Leigh Barnes, "the desire to travel is so strong that most young adults may not be waiting for friends, family, or anyone else to book their trip, and are willing to go solo." A recent study conducted by the company showed that "nearly four in five US adults say they have taken or would be interested in taking a solo trip, with nearly nine in ten adults aged 18-35 saying the same," he adds. For Charnell Ward, PR Specialist at Pearl Lemon Adventures, solo travelers are among the greatest protagonists of the 2025 travel trends: "they are increasingly seeking experiences that balance independence with a sense of community, such as joining wellness retreats or adventure tours where connections form naturally," she says.Because of their wide-ranging on-site activities and just as impressive modern interior design, we think that destinations like Paradero Todos Santos, rising at the very tip of the Baja California Sur state, the Ashar Valley's Our Habitas AlUla resort and Caravan accommodations, and the Utah-based Amangiri "adrenaline-fueled adventure and peaceful desert retreats" would make the ultimate solution for tasteful solo travelers with insatiable wanderlust.5. When, Not WhereImage 1 of 8The sophisticated mountain feel of the cōmodo, a design gem in the Austrian Alps(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)... and its snowy views(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)The modern rustic feel of Casa Cook North Coast, an Egyptian resort with style to spare(Image credit: Casa Cook North Coast. Design: Vision Alphabet and Shehab A. Mazhar Architects)The aurora borealis, as experienced from Welcome Beyond's Aurora Cabin in Laupstad, Norway(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)The modernist exterior of Boca de Agua, a stunning, tropical Mexican retreat(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)The view from one of the suites of the Casa Cook El Gouna, sited on the Red Sea(Image credit: Casa Cook El Gouna. Design: Common Architecture)Boca de Agua's iconic interiors(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)Perhaps the biggest 2025 travel trend of them all, 'When, Not Where' sees the world's wanderers plan their much-awaited getaways as a way out of extreme temperatures and the frenzy of everyday life. Rather than traveling at the peak of summer, or winter, more people seem to be interested in "uncovering a different side to a destination by exploring outside of conventional times," Ayaka Hasegawa, PR Manager at Luxury Tour Operator Black Tomato, tells me.Joining 'cool-' and 'warmcations' — or the journeys we take to foreign destinations in an attempt to avoid the heat and frost in our countries — respectively, "noctourism has emerged as a micro trend of its own", with people wandering around their chosen holiday locations at night "to escape daytime crowds, witness once-in-a-lifetime natural phenomena, and enjoy the place at a more relaxed pace," adds the expert. Meanwhile, the growing popularity of the off- and shoulder seasons, a symptom of the shift towards more sustainable ways of conceiving travel, allows travelers to interact with the beauty of coveted destinations like New Zealand and Australia — previously overlooked during the cooler months — in completely new ways.If places like Egypt's Common Architecture-designed Casa Cook El Gouna and the modernist paradise of Balacar's Boca de Agua grant you a balmy respite from winter's below-zero temperatures, Welcome Beyond's Scandinavian design-inspired properties such as The Cliff in Quebec and Laupstad's Aurora Cabin are your portal into nature's wonders and interior (as well as exterior) coolness.2025 has only just begun, but we know travel will be a huge part of it. Whether pointing you in the direction of the best places to visit this year and the most design-worthy accommodations available there, or convincing you to take up solo travel for the very first time, we hope this Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report has given you a reason to be on the move — whether literally or metaphorically.With climate change manifesting dramatically as we write, this year's travel predictions urge us to focus on the when, how, and why of tourism far more than on the where alone. Let this guide you in planning journeys that can nurture you and your close ones as much as they contribute sensibly to the environment around you. And if you are stuck for inspiration, head to our hotel design pages, your online directory to stylish escapism. Source link

[alexha2210]

Every year, as the darkness of the coldest months sinks in, the only thing that keeps me going is knowing that, sooner or later, I will take a break from my work routine, pack my bags, and travel somewhere I have likely never been before. Of course, I am not the only one to feel this way. The fact that most vacation bookings are made between the end of the holiday season and January is a clear indication of how our wanderlust peaks in winter, prompting us to search for the latest travel trends and the best destinations to tick off our bucket list as we wait impatiently to visit them first-hand.But travel trends, or the forecasting of the places, interests, and modalities that will define people's journeys in the year ahead, don't exclusively concern "travel". Quite the opposite, they are a reflection of society as a whole; a reaction to the myriad of phenomena that — however consciously — shape the way we live right now, from the rise of social media and AI, to the hyper-productivity demanded by contemporary workplaces, the unfolding of climate change, and pop culture. What does that mean? It means that, whether or not we are aware of it, the locations at the center of our travel itineraries, how we choose to reach them, and the reasons and purposes behind our vacations are not casual, but embody the state of our lives today. These travel trends reveal what drives and inspires us, what we fear we lack, and are therefore trying to get more of, and what we would like to become in the future.Merging exclusive insights from multiple industry experts, this Livingetc report doesn't bring mere advice on where to go in 2025: it also captures the nuances of our urge to explore, and outlines how we can continue to do so without harming the nature and the communities around us — all while putting extraordinary design at the forefront.At Amangiri, a 5-star luxury resort in Utah's dramatic Canyon Point, relaxation and adventure collide(Image credit: Amangiri. Design: Marwan Al-Sayed, Wendell Burnette, and Rick Joy)What Are the Biggest Travel Trends for 2025?While travel trends may differ from nation to nation, our look forward at the moods, hobbies, and countries that will serve as the real protagonists of 2025 gives a polarized portrait of the world at a glance. If, on the one hand, more and more wanderers seem to be seeking holidays that can grant them the peace of mind they miss in their everyday lives by chasing after wellness retreats, slow living destinations, and quieter getaways than the usual city breaks, for others, travel is all about adrenaline. Electrifying solo — or train-hopping — adventures and wilderness-absorbed accommodations that evoke thrill, awe, or even danger, are as appealing to the world's travel community as their calm-inducing counterparts.Despite their diverging end goals, both are brought together by the same rule: where we travel in 2025 is not that important; what matters is when, how, and why we do it. Shoulder seasons, or the periods between a region's peak season and offseason, are gaining momentum, with travelers opting for less canonical moments of the year to be on the move, or planning their escapes to coincide with the coldest — or hottest — months. This helps mitigate the environmental and social impact of over-tourism, also granting vacationers a more enjoyable stay. As for the how, 2025 travel trends are synonymous with restfulness, connection, and personalization: think curated itineraries that unearth hidden trails, blending art, culture, food, community, and sport into a multifaceted experience to be savored on your own or with your loved ones.Without further ado: these are 2025's biggest travel trends.1. CalmcationsImage 1 of 4The tranquil atmosphere at Hume, a wellness-focused club in Venice Beach, California(Image credit: Yoshihiro Makino and Hume. Design: Wisan Studio and Bricault Design)The sun-lit interiors of Californian winery Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)An historical building has been turned into a design lover's dream at Casa Salento, a calm retreat in southern Italy's Puglia region(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)Some of the crafty workshop held on site at Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)If 2025 travel trends could be summed up in a sentence, it would be: we need a break. And no, it is not the winter blues speaking, it is the global community as a whole. Two weeks into the year, "we're seeing a rise in clients booking 'quiet travel', with travelers seeking to escape the noise of everyday life — whether that's noise from content, work, other people, or even your own thoughts," Carolyn Weppler, Senior Vice President at Goway tells me.The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.Directing visitors towards more rural, secluded locations instead of bustling metropolises, these "calmcations" are characterized by a stronger immersion in nature and a focus on restoring our physical, mental, and emotional balance. Prioritizing our primal needs over visits to "must-see attractions", quiet travel invites us to put ourselves first — even, and especially, on vacation.Wellness RetreatsThis isn't a travel trend that is bound to fizzle as people settle into the year, but the opposite. In the coming weeks, "the demand for wellness-focused retreats is only set to rise as wanderers seek restorative experiences that prioritize their physical and mental well-being," says Rebecca Harley, Marketing Manager at Journeyscape. "Coastal destinations, mountain resorts, and lakeside lodges across North America are tailoring their offerings to include mindfulness workshops, yoga retreats, and nature-based therapies." Providing an antidote to the fast-paced digital world, these experiences emphasize "the importance of rejuvenation, making them particularly attractive to both solo adventurers and groups seeking meaningful connection."The bathed-in-sunlight gardens of Nice's Hôtel du Couvent, a leading example of contemporary agrotourism(Image credit: Giulio Ghirardi. Courtesy of Hôtel du Couvent. Design: Tom Stuart-Smith Ltd and Scape Design)Agrotourism and Natural Wonders GetawaysPlaces like Fairfield's Caymus-Suisun, a sun-baked Californian winery spectacularly crafted by local design studio The Bureau, offer an alternative way of embracing the 'calmcation' concept. Open for food and wine tastings, here you can "pick fruit in our orchards, and walk the vineyards and vegetable garden," explain Founders Chuck, Charlie, and Jenny Wagner, whose project falls under the newly surfacing category of 'agrotourism'.In recent years, more hotels and resorts have started integrating visits to kitchen gardens and connected farms in their offering, showcasing the quality of their produce and facilitating enriching exchanges between staff and visitors. At Poggi del Sasso's Castello di Vicarello, for example, "you'll enjoy farm-to-table dining with organic ingredients sourced directly from the estate's gardens and olive groves," East End Taste founder Vanessa Gordon tells me, recalling her sojourn at the property. "With over 50 varieties of vegetables and 30 aromatic herbs, their chefs craft authentic Tuscan dishes that highlight the freshest local flavors, and the castle even has their own wine that they bottle and sell."Another local resort, Rosewood's Castiglion del Bosco, "utilizes a similar approach on a grander scale," she says. "They grow much of their own herbs in a garden that guests can walk around, besides having onsite cooking classes and truffle hunting classes, and a winery near the premises." Particularly popular in American states like Arizona and California, and Italy's evergreen Trentino, Tuscany, and Umbria, 'agrotourism' is just another form of quiet travel. This also counts for "natural wonders getaways," explains Weppler. "Think of excursions to places like Kenya's Maasai Mara and Serengeti, Australia's Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, Mount Fuji, the Alaska Glaciers, and the Swiss Alps."2. Slow TravelImage 1 of 6An aerial view of Uzbekistan's mountain ranges, one of the unexpected destinations predicted to be big this year(Image credit: Getty Images)The color-block hotel lobby of Busan's Coolest Hotel lives up to the stay's name(Image credit: Studio SIM. Courtesy of The Coolest Hotel. Design: Jongkim Design Studio and Design Madonna)Uzbekistan's rich cultural heritage and history is tangible in its colorfully intricate architecture(Image credit: Getty Images)The biggest room at The Bull Charlbury makes the perfect romantic retreat for winter wanderers(Image credit: The Bull Charlbury. Design: Phil Winser and James Gummer)The countryside of Vietnam, another nation believed to be on the traveling community's radar in 2025(Image credit: Getty Images)The Daniel Arsham-designed Kohler cabin in Wisconsin is the go-to destination for an arty staycation(Image credit: Kohler Co. Design: Daniel Arsham)While quite travel values repose and regeneration through activities that can favor a better quality of life, slow travel extends that invigorating effect to the places we visit, too. Contrary to the past, "2025 is seeing a real move towards less rushed vacations; stays that can foster deeper interactions with a place than whistle-stop tours to tick off bucket-list sights," Harley explains. As one of the biggest travel trends of 2025, slow travel wants us to reassess what it actually means to travel, making us aware of the impact of our choices.Since the pandemic, "people seem to be much more thoughtful about how they travel," Brenda Beltrán, Travel Writer and Content Manager at Holafly, tells me. They don't just look for experiences "that feel personal and that matter to them," she adds, "but they are also more inclined to engage with local cultures, make sustainable choices, and spend more time in one place."Staycations'Staycations', or vacations spent in our home country rather than abroad, have first come to the fore amid the post-COVID-19 limbo, when people didn't brave venturing outside of national borders for fear of unexpected negative repercussions. Nearly five years on since the outbreak, and with overseas travel now back in full force, this trend hasn't got any less prominent. Instead, it has just become one of the best, most popular, and most sustainable, ways to travel.According to recent research from Away Resorts, 52% of UK travelers will spend their time off somewhere in the country this year, while in the US, domestic travel is "projected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, driven by a renewed interest in local experiences". Staycation options are as varied as ever, and not always requiring you to jump on a plane in order to reach them, rather eco-conscious, too.Still wondering where to go in 2025? You could opt for an under-the-radar lodge, like Livingetc's Style Editor Julia Demer did when she spent a weekend at the surreally beautiful Daniel Arsham's Kohler cabin, or, drawing on insights from Campspot's (Re)Creation Vacation 2025 Trend Outlook, drive to the 'nostalgic hotspots' expected to enjoy a renaissance as some of this year's most popular outdoor destinations, including West Yellowstone, Traverse City, Miami, Bar Harbor, and Grand Canyon. You could check if the minimalist chic guesthouses of Danish furniture and homeware brand Vipp have landed anywhere near you, making them your refuge for a day or two. Alternatively, if you are in Britain, you might indulge in the design-forward resurgence of historical pubs with rooms — as I did during a recent stay at the modern rustic décor idyll that is The Bull Charlbury.An underrated cultural and natural wonder, Cambodia is set to be one of this year's most sought-after destinations(Image credit: Getty Images)Off-the-Beaten-PathAlthough it might sound counterintuitive, going for unconventional and less traveled destinations — however remote those might be — is yet another side of the slow travel movement. Making a conscious effort not to flock in mass to the ever-crowded Rome, Paris, Barcelona, and New York, instead booking longer holidays in 'off-the-beaten-path' regions, might well be the way forward, or at least that is what experts suggest in regards to travel 2025 trend predictions. So what are some of the best places to visit this year if you want to give slow travel a go? Get ready to be spoilt for choice."A less crowded alternative to Dubrovnik in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina is being heralded as the rising star of The Balkans for 2025," says Wild Frontiers' Clare Tobin, who mentions its awe-inspiring nature, burgeoning wine industry, and scenic cycle routes as some of its greatest highlights. But the country isn't the only Eastern European location on the rise. In Latvia, "unspoiled beaches, ancient castles and Europe's widest waterfall" are all one booking away, Travelzoo's Communications Director Cat Jordan explains, while Gulet Cruise Montenegro's Alexandra Iordan looks at "Montenegro's untouched nature, rich history, and vibrant culture" as the secrets to a perfect getaway.Meanwhile, underrated destinations in Central and East Asia are gaining momentum, too. For Explore Worldwide's Michael Edwards, "South Korea is the place to visit" this year. "A relatively unexplored slice of Asia, the country seamlessly juxtaposes over 5,000 years of culture and history with all things hyper-modern," he explains. Check the retro-futuristic lobby and rooms of Busan's color-block Coolest Hotel and you will know Edwards' prediction is spot on.Still, there are more Asian explorations to try out this year. According to James Adkin, Product Manager at Explore Worldwide, "there's a huge amount of interest in the Silk Road at the moment, both culturally and historically," with bookings to Uzbekistan rising up 52% compared to last year. Countries like Cambodia, with its "untouched beaches and breathtaking scenery", and abundant wildlife, "tick several travel boxes," explains Jordan, while Holiday Extras' has Vietnam's Côn Đảo archipelago down as the best place to visit between November and April 2025.3. Passion — and Event — TourismImage 1 of 4Osaka, the host of the 2025 EXPO, is known for its vibrant nightlife and culinary scene, as well as for its immersive natural parks(Image credit: Getty Images)Hotel Peter and Paul is one of New Orleans' coolest design hotels, making it the perfect stay for travelers wanting to enjoy the 2025 Super Bowl LIX in style(Image credit: Hotel Peter and Paul. Design: StudioWTA, ASH NYC, and Nathalie Jordi)Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim's "The Form" (2024), one of the colossal artworks presented as part of Frieze Sculpture, which returns to London 15-19 October 2025 alongside Frieze and Frieze Masters(Image credit: Linda Nylind. Courtesy of Linda Nylind and Frieze)The minimalist, chic interiors of Hotel Volkshaus Basel, a must-know destination for creatives looking to attend the Basel 2025 Eurovision (13-17 May) or Art Basel 2025 (19-22 June)(Image credit: Hotel Volkshaus Basel. Design: Herzog & de Meuron)Last year, record-smashing pop singer Taylor Swift's North American Eras Tour had a $2 billion impact on the US economy, with tour locations seeing direct correlation between concert dates and spikes in hotel bookings (Check out Livingetc's interiors-led deep dive into Taylor Swift property to catch a glimpse of her estate empire). In Philadelphia, for example, May was the strongest hotel revenue month, coinciding with the music artist's presence in town. Across Europe, hotel prices in concert cities increased by an average of 44%, while in Singapore alone, inbound flights, accommodation bookings, and tours to local attractions grew by 186%, 462%, and 2,373% during the local leg of the Eras Tour, Trip.com reported.For LaDell Carter, Lead Luxury Lifestyle Travel Designer and Founder of Royal Expression Travels, passion-led tourism is not going anywhere in 2025. "Travel has always been an emotional purchase, but now more than ever, it's an act of self-prioritization and purpose," she tells me. Today, "it is not just about where people go, but why they are going and how their unique needs are met along the way." Rebecca Recommends's Rebecca Slater couldn't agree more. "This year we expect to see travel plans centered around major events, and not just concerts," the Founder explains. "Whether it's witnessing the Sydney New Year's Eve Fireworks, catching the Super Bowl LIX action in New Orleans, or checking off a bucket list trip at the Monaco Grand Prix, there are numerous significant events around the world that are already attracting attention."Already noted in our books are the Frieze fairs (20-23 February, Los Angeles. 7-11 May, New York. 15-19 October, London); the Expo 2025 (13 April-13 October 2025), with Osaka, Japan's second-largest city, playing as host; the Eurovision Song Contest (13-17 May 2025), which lands in Basel, Switzerland's creative capital, in late spring, a month ahead of the Art Basel exhibition (19-22 June 2025); Milan Design Week (7-13 April 2025), including Salone del Mobile; and the long-anticipated reunion tour of Oasis, coming to the UK 4 July-17 August 2025.When it comes to passion tourism, which doesn't merely include trips related to specific events, but encompasses a thorough (and recently, even AI-assisted) personalization of all aspects of the journey, the secret "lies in the details," Carter explains. This 2025 travel trend is all about "delving into the intricacies of each traveler's passions and preferences," she adds. "Take Canyon Ranch in Arizona, for example. When I visited with colleagues, it didn't feel like a group trip — it was all about my personal path. From curated workout routines to tailored wellness consultations, every moment was designed around me. Their ambassador had planned everything in advance, and by the time I arrived, it felt like they had known me for years." That, for her, is "the magic of passion-led travel — it transforms a destination into a deeply personal journey."4. Adventure TravelImage 1 of 8Luxury group Belmond is at the forefront of the train renaissance, and the images of its rail solutions speak for themselves(Image credit: Belmond)The interiors are a one-way-ticket to an Agatha Christie's mystery(Image credit: Belmond)The brutalist exterior of Paradero Todos Santos, an experiential luxury hotel nestled in the Mexican desert(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)Our Habitas AlUla, a sustainable desert resort housed within the orangey dunes of the Ashar Valley, Saudi Arabia(Image credit: Our Habitas AlUla. Design: Habitas)The breathtaking views surrounding Paradero Todos Santos(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)The ferrata trail near Amangiri, a spectacular luxury resort in Canyon Point, Utah(Image credit: Amangiri)Another detail from a Belmond train, captured as it speeds by(Image credit: Belmond)... and its atmospheric golden hour(Image credit: Belmond)If there's a leitmotif that permeates all the travel 2025 trends, it is a desire for experiences that feel as challenging and personal as they are unforgettable. It is the rise of the "adventure travel boom", which, as Much Better Adventures CMO and Co-Founder Sam Bruce puts it, "is fueled by those craving immersive experiences and an escape from the humdrum of daily life." For the travel expert, this trend doesn't just offer physical, mental, and social benefits, but when done right, "it boosts local economies far more sustainably than traditional tourism," he adds.Traditionally, adventure travel comprises anything from "going kayaking and wildlife spotting" to "hiking in less-visited regions of Europe". This Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report gives it the design treatment: think lavishly furnished, flashing trains straight out of an Agatha Christie thriller, luxury glamping resorts and cabins immersed in the glowing Arabian desert, and opencast Mexican resorts bringing brutalist interiors to life through safari tours, art itineraries, as well as fitness, surf, and cooking classes.Ditch the Plane for the Train2025 might as well be called the year of the train. Why? Not only is the British Railway celebrating its 200th anniversary, but a whole new range of retro-inspired luxury trains, inspired by the legendary 1883 Orient Express and bringing its Art Deco design style into the contemporary, are coming to multiple locations across the globe, making traveling as timeless and captivating as it has ever been.Among such anticipated openings are those of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, an all-Italian designed train created to connect Rome to destinations like Venice and Sicily, with décor reviving the creative genius of 1960s to 1970s icons Gio Ponti, Nanda Vigo, and Gae Aulenti signed by Dimorestudio; the Britannic Explorer, the latest newcomer to Belmond's dazzling railway portfolio, and England and Wales' first luxury sleeper train; SJ Norge's Norient Express, promising a six-day adventure through some of Norway's most scenic landscapes; the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, which will take you to the discovery of one of the world's most ancient trading network and the marvels sited along it; and the American Dreamstar Lines, a nightly luxury train operating between Los Angeles and San Francisco, with interiors by Designworks.From the vibrant Seven Stars in Kyushu, an emblem of Japan's time-traveling craftsmanship, to the Wes Anderson-esque Maharajas' Express, offering exclusive journeys across North-West and Central India, and South Africa's Rovos Rail, guiding you across the Rainbow Nation through Namibia and Tanzania, the world has far more trains today than you would expect it to have — and they are taking us back to the future! For Journeyscape's Rebecca Harley, this trend reflects "a growing urge for sustainable exploration and meaningful experiences." In Canada, "travelers seek to reduce their carbon footprint while taking in the country's breathtaking landscapes," she says, adding that locations like the Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec have all become more easily accessible through iconic routes such as Via Rail. "Trains offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and scenic immersion, making an especially appealing option for solo travelers who prioritize safety and ease."From hiking, climbing, and boating, to yoga and horseback riding, everything is possible at AmangiriGoing SoloHarley's mention of solo travelers isn't in any way coincidental. According to Intrepid Travel CCO Leigh Barnes, "the desire to travel is so strong that most young adults may not be waiting for friends, family, or anyone else to book their trip, and are willing to go solo." A recent study conducted by the company showed that "nearly four in five US adults say they have taken or would be interested in taking a solo trip, with nearly nine in ten adults aged 18-35 saying the same," he adds. For Charnell Ward, PR Specialist at Pearl Lemon Adventures, solo travelers are among the greatest protagonists of the 2025 travel trends: "they are increasingly seeking experiences that balance independence with a sense of community, such as joining wellness retreats or adventure tours where connections form naturally," she says.Because of their wide-ranging on-site activities and just as impressive modern interior design, we think that destinations like Paradero Todos Santos, rising at the very tip of the Baja California Sur state, the Ashar Valley's Our Habitas AlUla resort and Caravan accommodations, and the Utah-based Amangiri "adrenaline-fueled adventure and peaceful desert retreats" would make the ultimate solution for tasteful solo travelers with insatiable wanderlust.5. When, Not WhereImage 1 of 8The sophisticated mountain feel of the cōmodo, a design gem in the Austrian Alps(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)... and its snowy views(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)The modern rustic feel of Casa Cook North Coast, an Egyptian resort with style to spare(Image credit: Casa Cook North Coast. Design: Vision Alphabet and Shehab A. Mazhar Architects)The aurora borealis, as experienced from Welcome Beyond's Aurora Cabin in Laupstad, Norway(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)The modernist exterior of Boca de Agua, a stunning, tropical Mexican retreat(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)The view from one of the suites of the Casa Cook El Gouna, sited on the Red Sea(Image credit: Casa Cook El Gouna. Design: Common Architecture)Boca de Agua's iconic interiors(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)Perhaps the biggest 2025 travel trend of them all, 'When, Not Where' sees the world's wanderers plan their much-awaited getaways as a way out of extreme temperatures and the frenzy of everyday life. Rather than traveling at the peak of summer, or winter, more people seem to be interested in "uncovering a different side to a destination by exploring outside of conventional times," Ayaka Hasegawa, PR Manager at Luxury Tour Operator Black Tomato, tells me.Joining 'cool-' and 'warmcations' — or the journeys we take to foreign destinations in an attempt to avoid the heat and frost in our countries — respectively, "noctourism has emerged as a micro trend of its own", with people wandering around their chosen holiday locations at night "to escape daytime crowds, witness once-in-a-lifetime natural phenomena, and enjoy the place at a more relaxed pace," adds the expert. Meanwhile, the growing popularity of the off- and shoulder seasons, a symptom of the shift towards more sustainable ways of conceiving travel, allows travelers to interact with the beauty of coveted destinations like New Zealand and Australia — previously overlooked during the cooler months — in completely new ways.If places like Egypt's Common Architecture-designed Casa Cook El Gouna and the modernist paradise of Balacar's Boca de Agua grant you a balmy respite from winter's below-zero temperatures, Welcome Beyond's Scandinavian design-inspired properties such as The Cliff in Quebec and Laupstad's Aurora Cabin are your portal into nature's wonders and interior (as well as exterior) coolness.2025 has only just begun, but we know travel will be a huge part of it. Whether pointing you in the direction of the best places to visit this year and the most design-worthy accommodations available there, or convincing you to take up solo travel for the very first time, we hope this Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report has given you a reason to be on the move — whether literally or metaphorically.With climate change manifesting dramatically as we write, this year's travel predictions urge us to focus on the when, how, and why of tourism far more than on the where alone. Let this guide you in planning journeys that can nurture you and your close ones as much as they contribute sensibly to the environment around you. And if you are stuck for inspiration, head to our hotel design pages, your online directory to stylish escapism. Source link

[angusstory]

Every year, as the darkness of the coldest months sinks in, the only thing that keeps me going is knowing that, sooner or later, I will take a break from my work routine, pack my bags, and travel somewhere I have likely never been before. Of course, I am not the only one to feel this way. The fact that most vacation bookings are made between the end of the holiday season and January is a clear indication of how our wanderlust peaks in winter, prompting us to search for the latest travel trends and the best destinations to tick off our bucket list as we wait impatiently to visit them first-hand.But travel trends, or the forecasting of the places, interests, and modalities that will define people's journeys in the year ahead, don't exclusively concern "travel". Quite the opposite, they are a reflection of society as a whole; a reaction to the myriad of phenomena that — however consciously — shape the way we live right now, from the rise of social media and AI, to the hyper-productivity demanded by contemporary workplaces, the unfolding of climate change, and pop culture. What does that mean? It means that, whether or not we are aware of it, the locations at the center of our travel itineraries, how we choose to reach them, and the reasons and purposes behind our vacations are not casual, but embody the state of our lives today. These travel trends reveal what drives and inspires us, what we fear we lack, and are therefore trying to get more of, and what we would like to become in the future.Merging exclusive insights from multiple industry experts, this Livingetc report doesn't bring mere advice on where to go in 2025: it also captures the nuances of our urge to explore, and outlines how we can continue to do so without harming the nature and the communities around us — all while putting extraordinary design at the forefront.At Amangiri, a 5-star luxury resort in Utah's dramatic Canyon Point, relaxation and adventure collide(Image credit: Amangiri. Design: Marwan Al-Sayed, Wendell Burnette, and Rick Joy)What Are the Biggest Travel Trends for 2025?While travel trends may differ from nation to nation, our look forward at the moods, hobbies, and countries that will serve as the real protagonists of 2025 gives a polarized portrait of the world at a glance. If, on the one hand, more and more wanderers seem to be seeking holidays that can grant them the peace of mind they miss in their everyday lives by chasing after wellness retreats, slow living destinations, and quieter getaways than the usual city breaks, for others, travel is all about adrenaline. Electrifying solo — or train-hopping — adventures and wilderness-absorbed accommodations that evoke thrill, awe, or even danger, are as appealing to the world's travel community as their calm-inducing counterparts.Despite their diverging end goals, both are brought together by the same rule: where we travel in 2025 is not that important; what matters is when, how, and why we do it. Shoulder seasons, or the periods between a region's peak season and offseason, are gaining momentum, with travelers opting for less canonical moments of the year to be on the move, or planning their escapes to coincide with the coldest — or hottest — months. This helps mitigate the environmental and social impact of over-tourism, also granting vacationers a more enjoyable stay. As for the how, 2025 travel trends are synonymous with restfulness, connection, and personalization: think curated itineraries that unearth hidden trails, blending art, culture, food, community, and sport into a multifaceted experience to be savored on your own or with your loved ones.Without further ado: these are 2025's biggest travel trends.1. CalmcationsImage 1 of 4The tranquil atmosphere at Hume, a wellness-focused club in Venice Beach, California(Image credit: Yoshihiro Makino and Hume. Design: Wisan Studio and Bricault Design)The sun-lit interiors of Californian winery Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)An historical building has been turned into a design lover's dream at Casa Salento, a calm retreat in southern Italy's Puglia region(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)Some of the crafty workshop held on site at Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)If 2025 travel trends could be summed up in a sentence, it would be: we need a break. And no, it is not the winter blues speaking, it is the global community as a whole. Two weeks into the year, "we're seeing a rise in clients booking 'quiet travel', with travelers seeking to escape the noise of everyday life — whether that's noise from content, work, other people, or even your own thoughts," Carolyn Weppler, Senior Vice President at Goway tells me.The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.Directing visitors towards more rural, secluded locations instead of bustling metropolises, these "calmcations" are characterized by a stronger immersion in nature and a focus on restoring our physical, mental, and emotional balance. Prioritizing our primal needs over visits to "must-see attractions", quiet travel invites us to put ourselves first — even, and especially, on vacation.Wellness RetreatsThis isn't a travel trend that is bound to fizzle as people settle into the year, but the opposite. In the coming weeks, "the demand for wellness-focused retreats is only set to rise as wanderers seek restorative experiences that prioritize their physical and mental well-being," says Rebecca Harley, Marketing Manager at Journeyscape. "Coastal destinations, mountain resorts, and lakeside lodges across North America are tailoring their offerings to include mindfulness workshops, yoga retreats, and nature-based therapies." Providing an antidote to the fast-paced digital world, these experiences emphasize "the importance of rejuvenation, making them particularly attractive to both solo adventurers and groups seeking meaningful connection."The bathed-in-sunlight gardens of Nice's Hôtel du Couvent, a leading example of contemporary agrotourism(Image credit: Giulio Ghirardi. Courtesy of Hôtel du Couvent. Design: Tom Stuart-Smith Ltd and Scape Design)Agrotourism and Natural Wonders GetawaysPlaces like Fairfield's Caymus-Suisun, a sun-baked Californian winery spectacularly crafted by local design studio The Bureau, offer an alternative way of embracing the 'calmcation' concept. Open for food and wine tastings, here you can "pick fruit in our orchards, and walk the vineyards and vegetable garden," explain Founders Chuck, Charlie, and Jenny Wagner, whose project falls under the newly surfacing category of 'agrotourism'.In recent years, more hotels and resorts have started integrating visits to kitchen gardens and connected farms in their offering, showcasing the quality of their produce and facilitating enriching exchanges between staff and visitors. At Poggi del Sasso's Castello di Vicarello, for example, "you'll enjoy farm-to-table dining with organic ingredients sourced directly from the estate's gardens and olive groves," East End Taste founder Vanessa Gordon tells me, recalling her sojourn at the property. "With over 50 varieties of vegetables and 30 aromatic herbs, their chefs craft authentic Tuscan dishes that highlight the freshest local flavors, and the castle even has their own wine that they bottle and sell."Another local resort, Rosewood's Castiglion del Bosco, "utilizes a similar approach on a grander scale," she says. "They grow much of their own herbs in a garden that guests can walk around, besides having onsite cooking classes and truffle hunting classes, and a winery near the premises." Particularly popular in American states like Arizona and California, and Italy's evergreen Trentino, Tuscany, and Umbria, 'agrotourism' is just another form of quiet travel. This also counts for "natural wonders getaways," explains Weppler. "Think of excursions to places like Kenya's Maasai Mara and Serengeti, Australia's Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, Mount Fuji, the Alaska Glaciers, and the Swiss Alps."2. Slow TravelImage 1 of 6An aerial view of Uzbekistan's mountain ranges, one of the unexpected destinations predicted to be big this year(Image credit: Getty Images)The color-block hotel lobby of Busan's Coolest Hotel lives up to the stay's name(Image credit: Studio SIM. Courtesy of The Coolest Hotel. Design: Jongkim Design Studio and Design Madonna)Uzbekistan's rich cultural heritage and history is tangible in its colorfully intricate architecture(Image credit: Getty Images)The biggest room at The Bull Charlbury makes the perfect romantic retreat for winter wanderers(Image credit: The Bull Charlbury. Design: Phil Winser and James Gummer)The countryside of Vietnam, another nation believed to be on the traveling community's radar in 2025(Image credit: Getty Images)The Daniel Arsham-designed Kohler cabin in Wisconsin is the go-to destination for an arty staycation(Image credit: Kohler Co. Design: Daniel Arsham)While quite travel values repose and regeneration through activities that can favor a better quality of life, slow travel extends that invigorating effect to the places we visit, too. Contrary to the past, "2025 is seeing a real move towards less rushed vacations; stays that can foster deeper interactions with a place than whistle-stop tours to tick off bucket-list sights," Harley explains. As one of the biggest travel trends of 2025, slow travel wants us to reassess what it actually means to travel, making us aware of the impact of our choices.Since the pandemic, "people seem to be much more thoughtful about how they travel," Brenda Beltrán, Travel Writer and Content Manager at Holafly, tells me. They don't just look for experiences "that feel personal and that matter to them," she adds, "but they are also more inclined to engage with local cultures, make sustainable choices, and spend more time in one place."Staycations'Staycations', or vacations spent in our home country rather than abroad, have first come to the fore amid the post-COVID-19 limbo, when people didn't brave venturing outside of national borders for fear of unexpected negative repercussions. Nearly five years on since the outbreak, and with overseas travel now back in full force, this trend hasn't got any less prominent. Instead, it has just become one of the best, most popular, and most sustainable, ways to travel.According to recent research from Away Resorts, 52% of UK travelers will spend their time off somewhere in the country this year, while in the US, domestic travel is "projected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, driven by a renewed interest in local experiences". Staycation options are as varied as ever, and not always requiring you to jump on a plane in order to reach them, rather eco-conscious, too.Still wondering where to go in 2025? You could opt for an under-the-radar lodge, like Livingetc's Style Editor Julia Demer did when she spent a weekend at the surreally beautiful Daniel Arsham's Kohler cabin, or, drawing on insights from Campspot's (Re)Creation Vacation 2025 Trend Outlook, drive to the 'nostalgic hotspots' expected to enjoy a renaissance as some of this year's most popular outdoor destinations, including West Yellowstone, Traverse City, Miami, Bar Harbor, and Grand Canyon. You could check if the minimalist chic guesthouses of Danish furniture and homeware brand Vipp have landed anywhere near you, making them your refuge for a day or two. Alternatively, if you are in Britain, you might indulge in the design-forward resurgence of historical pubs with rooms — as I did during a recent stay at the modern rustic décor idyll that is The Bull Charlbury.An underrated cultural and natural wonder, Cambodia is set to be one of this year's most sought-after destinations(Image credit: Getty Images)Off-the-Beaten-PathAlthough it might sound counterintuitive, going for unconventional and less traveled destinations — however remote those might be — is yet another side of the slow travel movement. Making a conscious effort not to flock in mass to the ever-crowded Rome, Paris, Barcelona, and New York, instead booking longer holidays in 'off-the-beaten-path' regions, might well be the way forward, or at least that is what experts suggest in regards to travel 2025 trend predictions. So what are some of the best places to visit this year if you want to give slow travel a go? Get ready to be spoilt for choice."A less crowded alternative to Dubrovnik in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina is being heralded as the rising star of The Balkans for 2025," says Wild Frontiers' Clare Tobin, who mentions its awe-inspiring nature, burgeoning wine industry, and scenic cycle routes as some of its greatest highlights. But the country isn't the only Eastern European location on the rise. In Latvia, "unspoiled beaches, ancient castles and Europe's widest waterfall" are all one booking away, Travelzoo's Communications Director Cat Jordan explains, while Gulet Cruise Montenegro's Alexandra Iordan looks at "Montenegro's untouched nature, rich history, and vibrant culture" as the secrets to a perfect getaway.Meanwhile, underrated destinations in Central and East Asia are gaining momentum, too. For Explore Worldwide's Michael Edwards, "South Korea is the place to visit" this year. "A relatively unexplored slice of Asia, the country seamlessly juxtaposes over 5,000 years of culture and history with all things hyper-modern," he explains. Check the retro-futuristic lobby and rooms of Busan's color-block Coolest Hotel and you will know Edwards' prediction is spot on.Still, there are more Asian explorations to try out this year. According to James Adkin, Product Manager at Explore Worldwide, "there's a huge amount of interest in the Silk Road at the moment, both culturally and historically," with bookings to Uzbekistan rising up 52% compared to last year. Countries like Cambodia, with its "untouched beaches and breathtaking scenery", and abundant wildlife, "tick several travel boxes," explains Jordan, while Holiday Extras' has Vietnam's Côn Đảo archipelago down as the best place to visit between November and April 2025.3. Passion — and Event — TourismImage 1 of 4Osaka, the host of the 2025 EXPO, is known for its vibrant nightlife and culinary scene, as well as for its immersive natural parks(Image credit: Getty Images)Hotel Peter and Paul is one of New Orleans' coolest design hotels, making it the perfect stay for travelers wanting to enjoy the 2025 Super Bowl LIX in style(Image credit: Hotel Peter and Paul. Design: StudioWTA, ASH NYC, and Nathalie Jordi)Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim's "The Form" (2024), one of the colossal artworks presented as part of Frieze Sculpture, which returns to London 15-19 October 2025 alongside Frieze and Frieze Masters(Image credit: Linda Nylind. Courtesy of Linda Nylind and Frieze)The minimalist, chic interiors of Hotel Volkshaus Basel, a must-know destination for creatives looking to attend the Basel 2025 Eurovision (13-17 May) or Art Basel 2025 (19-22 June)(Image credit: Hotel Volkshaus Basel. Design: Herzog & de Meuron)Last year, record-smashing pop singer Taylor Swift's North American Eras Tour had a $2 billion impact on the US economy, with tour locations seeing direct correlation between concert dates and spikes in hotel bookings (Check out Livingetc's interiors-led deep dive into Taylor Swift property to catch a glimpse of her estate empire). In Philadelphia, for example, May was the strongest hotel revenue month, coinciding with the music artist's presence in town. Across Europe, hotel prices in concert cities increased by an average of 44%, while in Singapore alone, inbound flights, accommodation bookings, and tours to local attractions grew by 186%, 462%, and 2,373% during the local leg of the Eras Tour, Trip.com reported.For LaDell Carter, Lead Luxury Lifestyle Travel Designer and Founder of Royal Expression Travels, passion-led tourism is not going anywhere in 2025. "Travel has always been an emotional purchase, but now more than ever, it's an act of self-prioritization and purpose," she tells me. Today, "it is not just about where people go, but why they are going and how their unique needs are met along the way." Rebecca Recommends's Rebecca Slater couldn't agree more. "This year we expect to see travel plans centered around major events, and not just concerts," the Founder explains. "Whether it's witnessing the Sydney New Year's Eve Fireworks, catching the Super Bowl LIX action in New Orleans, or checking off a bucket list trip at the Monaco Grand Prix, there are numerous significant events around the world that are already attracting attention."Already noted in our books are the Frieze fairs (20-23 February, Los Angeles. 7-11 May, New York. 15-19 October, London); the Expo 2025 (13 April-13 October 2025), with Osaka, Japan's second-largest city, playing as host; the Eurovision Song Contest (13-17 May 2025), which lands in Basel, Switzerland's creative capital, in late spring, a month ahead of the Art Basel exhibition (19-22 June 2025); Milan Design Week (7-13 April 2025), including Salone del Mobile; and the long-anticipated reunion tour of Oasis, coming to the UK 4 July-17 August 2025.When it comes to passion tourism, which doesn't merely include trips related to specific events, but encompasses a thorough (and recently, even AI-assisted) personalization of all aspects of the journey, the secret "lies in the details," Carter explains. This 2025 travel trend is all about "delving into the intricacies of each traveler's passions and preferences," she adds. "Take Canyon Ranch in Arizona, for example. When I visited with colleagues, it didn't feel like a group trip — it was all about my personal path. From curated workout routines to tailored wellness consultations, every moment was designed around me. Their ambassador had planned everything in advance, and by the time I arrived, it felt like they had known me for years." That, for her, is "the magic of passion-led travel — it transforms a destination into a deeply personal journey."4. Adventure TravelImage 1 of 8Luxury group Belmond is at the forefront of the train renaissance, and the images of its rail solutions speak for themselves(Image credit: Belmond)The interiors are a one-way-ticket to an Agatha Christie's mystery(Image credit: Belmond)The brutalist exterior of Paradero Todos Santos, an experiential luxury hotel nestled in the Mexican desert(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)Our Habitas AlUla, a sustainable desert resort housed within the orangey dunes of the Ashar Valley, Saudi Arabia(Image credit: Our Habitas AlUla. Design: Habitas)The breathtaking views surrounding Paradero Todos Santos(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)The ferrata trail near Amangiri, a spectacular luxury resort in Canyon Point, Utah(Image credit: Amangiri)Another detail from a Belmond train, captured as it speeds by(Image credit: Belmond)... and its atmospheric golden hour(Image credit: Belmond)If there's a leitmotif that permeates all the travel 2025 trends, it is a desire for experiences that feel as challenging and personal as they are unforgettable. It is the rise of the "adventure travel boom", which, as Much Better Adventures CMO and Co-Founder Sam Bruce puts it, "is fueled by those craving immersive experiences and an escape from the humdrum of daily life." For the travel expert, this trend doesn't just offer physical, mental, and social benefits, but when done right, "it boosts local economies far more sustainably than traditional tourism," he adds.Traditionally, adventure travel comprises anything from "going kayaking and wildlife spotting" to "hiking in less-visited regions of Europe". This Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report gives it the design treatment: think lavishly furnished, flashing trains straight out of an Agatha Christie thriller, luxury glamping resorts and cabins immersed in the glowing Arabian desert, and opencast Mexican resorts bringing brutalist interiors to life through safari tours, art itineraries, as well as fitness, surf, and cooking classes.Ditch the Plane for the Train2025 might as well be called the year of the train. Why? Not only is the British Railway celebrating its 200th anniversary, but a whole new range of retro-inspired luxury trains, inspired by the legendary 1883 Orient Express and bringing its Art Deco design style into the contemporary, are coming to multiple locations across the globe, making traveling as timeless and captivating as it has ever been.Among such anticipated openings are those of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, an all-Italian designed train created to connect Rome to destinations like Venice and Sicily, with décor reviving the creative genius of 1960s to 1970s icons Gio Ponti, Nanda Vigo, and Gae Aulenti signed by Dimorestudio; the Britannic Explorer, the latest newcomer to Belmond's dazzling railway portfolio, and England and Wales' first luxury sleeper train; SJ Norge's Norient Express, promising a six-day adventure through some of Norway's most scenic landscapes; the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, which will take you to the discovery of one of the world's most ancient trading network and the marvels sited along it; and the American Dreamstar Lines, a nightly luxury train operating between Los Angeles and San Francisco, with interiors by Designworks.From the vibrant Seven Stars in Kyushu, an emblem of Japan's time-traveling craftsmanship, to the Wes Anderson-esque Maharajas' Express, offering exclusive journeys across North-West and Central India, and South Africa's Rovos Rail, guiding you across the Rainbow Nation through Namibia and Tanzania, the world has far more trains today than you would expect it to have — and they are taking us back to the future! For Journeyscape's Rebecca Harley, this trend reflects "a growing urge for sustainable exploration and meaningful experiences." In Canada, "travelers seek to reduce their carbon footprint while taking in the country's breathtaking landscapes," she says, adding that locations like the Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec have all become more easily accessible through iconic routes such as Via Rail. "Trains offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and scenic immersion, making an especially appealing option for solo travelers who prioritize safety and ease."From hiking, climbing, and boating, to yoga and horseback riding, everything is possible at AmangiriGoing SoloHarley's mention of solo travelers isn't in any way coincidental. According to Intrepid Travel CCO Leigh Barnes, "the desire to travel is so strong that most young adults may not be waiting for friends, family, or anyone else to book their trip, and are willing to go solo." A recent study conducted by the company showed that "nearly four in five US adults say they have taken or would be interested in taking a solo trip, with nearly nine in ten adults aged 18-35 saying the same," he adds. For Charnell Ward, PR Specialist at Pearl Lemon Adventures, solo travelers are among the greatest protagonists of the 2025 travel trends: "they are increasingly seeking experiences that balance independence with a sense of community, such as joining wellness retreats or adventure tours where connections form naturally," she says.Because of their wide-ranging on-site activities and just as impressive modern interior design, we think that destinations like Paradero Todos Santos, rising at the very tip of the Baja California Sur state, the Ashar Valley's Our Habitas AlUla resort and Caravan accommodations, and the Utah-based Amangiri "adrenaline-fueled adventure and peaceful desert retreats" would make the ultimate solution for tasteful solo travelers with insatiable wanderlust.5. When, Not WhereImage 1 of 8The sophisticated mountain feel of the cōmodo, a design gem in the Austrian Alps(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)... and its snowy views(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)The modern rustic feel of Casa Cook North Coast, an Egyptian resort with style to spare(Image credit: Casa Cook North Coast. Design: Vision Alphabet and Shehab A. Mazhar Architects)The aurora borealis, as experienced from Welcome Beyond's Aurora Cabin in Laupstad, Norway(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)The modernist exterior of Boca de Agua, a stunning, tropical Mexican retreat(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)The view from one of the suites of the Casa Cook El Gouna, sited on the Red Sea(Image credit: Casa Cook El Gouna. Design: Common Architecture)Boca de Agua's iconic interiors(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)Perhaps the biggest 2025 travel trend of them all, 'When, Not Where' sees the world's wanderers plan their much-awaited getaways as a way out of extreme temperatures and the frenzy of everyday life. Rather than traveling at the peak of summer, or winter, more people seem to be interested in "uncovering a different side to a destination by exploring outside of conventional times," Ayaka Hasegawa, PR Manager at Luxury Tour Operator Black Tomato, tells me.Joining 'cool-' and 'warmcations' — or the journeys we take to foreign destinations in an attempt to avoid the heat and frost in our countries — respectively, "noctourism has emerged as a micro trend of its own", with people wandering around their chosen holiday locations at night "to escape daytime crowds, witness once-in-a-lifetime natural phenomena, and enjoy the place at a more relaxed pace," adds the expert. Meanwhile, the growing popularity of the off- and shoulder seasons, a symptom of the shift towards more sustainable ways of conceiving travel, allows travelers to interact with the beauty of coveted destinations like New Zealand and Australia — previously overlooked during the cooler months — in completely new ways.If places like Egypt's Common Architecture-designed Casa Cook El Gouna and the modernist paradise of Balacar's Boca de Agua grant you a balmy respite from winter's below-zero temperatures, Welcome Beyond's Scandinavian design-inspired properties such as The Cliff in Quebec and Laupstad's Aurora Cabin are your portal into nature's wonders and interior (as well as exterior) coolness.2025 has only just begun, but we know travel will be a huge part of it. Whether pointing you in the direction of the best places to visit this year and the most design-worthy accommodations available there, or convincing you to take up solo travel for the very first time, we hope this Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report has given you a reason to be on the move — whether literally or metaphorically.With climate change manifesting dramatically as we write, this year's travel predictions urge us to focus on the when, how, and why of tourism far more than on the where alone. Let this guide you in planning journeys that can nurture you and your close ones as much as they contribute sensibly to the environment around you. And if you are stuck for inspiration, head to our hotel design pages, your online directory to stylish escapism. Source link

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Every year, as the darkness of the coldest months sinks in, the only thing that keeps me going is knowing that, sooner or later, I will take a break from my work routine, pack my bags, and travel somewhere I have likely never been before. Of course, I am not the only one to feel this way. The fact that most vacation bookings are made between the end of the holiday season and January is a clear indication of how our wanderlust peaks in winter, prompting us to search for the latest travel trends and the best destinations to tick off our bucket list as we wait impatiently to visit them first-hand.But travel trends, or the forecasting of the places, interests, and modalities that will define people's journeys in the year ahead, don't exclusively concern "travel". Quite the opposite, they are a reflection of society as a whole; a reaction to the myriad of phenomena that — however consciously — shape the way we live right now, from the rise of social media and AI, to the hyper-productivity demanded by contemporary workplaces, the unfolding of climate change, and pop culture. What does that mean? It means that, whether or not we are aware of it, the locations at the center of our travel itineraries, how we choose to reach them, and the reasons and purposes behind our vacations are not casual, but embody the state of our lives today. These travel trends reveal what drives and inspires us, what we fear we lack, and are therefore trying to get more of, and what we would like to become in the future.Merging exclusive insights from multiple industry experts, this Livingetc report doesn't bring mere advice on where to go in 2025: it also captures the nuances of our urge to explore, and outlines how we can continue to do so without harming the nature and the communities around us — all while putting extraordinary design at the forefront.At Amangiri, a 5-star luxury resort in Utah's dramatic Canyon Point, relaxation and adventure collide(Image credit: Amangiri. Design: Marwan Al-Sayed, Wendell Burnette, and Rick Joy)What Are the Biggest Travel Trends for 2025?While travel trends may differ from nation to nation, our look forward at the moods, hobbies, and countries that will serve as the real protagonists of 2025 gives a polarized portrait of the world at a glance. If, on the one hand, more and more wanderers seem to be seeking holidays that can grant them the peace of mind they miss in their everyday lives by chasing after wellness retreats, slow living destinations, and quieter getaways than the usual city breaks, for others, travel is all about adrenaline. Electrifying solo — or train-hopping — adventures and wilderness-absorbed accommodations that evoke thrill, awe, or even danger, are as appealing to the world's travel community as their calm-inducing counterparts.Despite their diverging end goals, both are brought together by the same rule: where we travel in 2025 is not that important; what matters is when, how, and why we do it. Shoulder seasons, or the periods between a region's peak season and offseason, are gaining momentum, with travelers opting for less canonical moments of the year to be on the move, or planning their escapes to coincide with the coldest — or hottest — months. This helps mitigate the environmental and social impact of over-tourism, also granting vacationers a more enjoyable stay. As for the how, 2025 travel trends are synonymous with restfulness, connection, and personalization: think curated itineraries that unearth hidden trails, blending art, culture, food, community, and sport into a multifaceted experience to be savored on your own or with your loved ones.Without further ado: these are 2025's biggest travel trends.1. CalmcationsImage 1 of 4The tranquil atmosphere at Hume, a wellness-focused club in Venice Beach, California(Image credit: Yoshihiro Makino and Hume. Design: Wisan Studio and Bricault Design)The sun-lit interiors of Californian winery Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)An historical building has been turned into a design lover's dream at Casa Salento, a calm retreat in southern Italy's Puglia region(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)Some of the crafty workshop held on site at Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)If 2025 travel trends could be summed up in a sentence, it would be: we need a break. And no, it is not the winter blues speaking, it is the global community as a whole. Two weeks into the year, "we're seeing a rise in clients booking 'quiet travel', with travelers seeking to escape the noise of everyday life — whether that's noise from content, work, other people, or even your own thoughts," Carolyn Weppler, Senior Vice President at Goway tells me.The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.Directing visitors towards more rural, secluded locations instead of bustling metropolises, these "calmcations" are characterized by a stronger immersion in nature and a focus on restoring our physical, mental, and emotional balance. Prioritizing our primal needs over visits to "must-see attractions", quiet travel invites us to put ourselves first — even, and especially, on vacation.Wellness RetreatsThis isn't a travel trend that is bound to fizzle as people settle into the year, but the opposite. In the coming weeks, "the demand for wellness-focused retreats is only set to rise as wanderers seek restorative experiences that prioritize their physical and mental well-being," says Rebecca Harley, Marketing Manager at Journeyscape. "Coastal destinations, mountain resorts, and lakeside lodges across North America are tailoring their offerings to include mindfulness workshops, yoga retreats, and nature-based therapies." Providing an antidote to the fast-paced digital world, these experiences emphasize "the importance of rejuvenation, making them particularly attractive to both solo adventurers and groups seeking meaningful connection."The bathed-in-sunlight gardens of Nice's Hôtel du Couvent, a leading example of contemporary agrotourism(Image credit: Giulio Ghirardi. Courtesy of Hôtel du Couvent. Design: Tom Stuart-Smith Ltd and Scape Design)Agrotourism and Natural Wonders GetawaysPlaces like Fairfield's Caymus-Suisun, a sun-baked Californian winery spectacularly crafted by local design studio The Bureau, offer an alternative way of embracing the 'calmcation' concept. Open for food and wine tastings, here you can "pick fruit in our orchards, and walk the vineyards and vegetable garden," explain Founders Chuck, Charlie, and Jenny Wagner, whose project falls under the newly surfacing category of 'agrotourism'.In recent years, more hotels and resorts have started integrating visits to kitchen gardens and connected farms in their offering, showcasing the quality of their produce and facilitating enriching exchanges between staff and visitors. At Poggi del Sasso's Castello di Vicarello, for example, "you'll enjoy farm-to-table dining with organic ingredients sourced directly from the estate's gardens and olive groves," East End Taste founder Vanessa Gordon tells me, recalling her sojourn at the property. "With over 50 varieties of vegetables and 30 aromatic herbs, their chefs craft authentic Tuscan dishes that highlight the freshest local flavors, and the castle even has their own wine that they bottle and sell."Another local resort, Rosewood's Castiglion del Bosco, "utilizes a similar approach on a grander scale," she says. "They grow much of their own herbs in a garden that guests can walk around, besides having onsite cooking classes and truffle hunting classes, and a winery near the premises." Particularly popular in American states like Arizona and California, and Italy's evergreen Trentino, Tuscany, and Umbria, 'agrotourism' is just another form of quiet travel. This also counts for "natural wonders getaways," explains Weppler. "Think of excursions to places like Kenya's Maasai Mara and Serengeti, Australia's Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, Mount Fuji, the Alaska Glaciers, and the Swiss Alps."2. Slow TravelImage 1 of 6An aerial view of Uzbekistan's mountain ranges, one of the unexpected destinations predicted to be big this year(Image credit: Getty Images)The color-block hotel lobby of Busan's Coolest Hotel lives up to the stay's name(Image credit: Studio SIM. Courtesy of The Coolest Hotel. Design: Jongkim Design Studio and Design Madonna)Uzbekistan's rich cultural heritage and history is tangible in its colorfully intricate architecture(Image credit: Getty Images)The biggest room at The Bull Charlbury makes the perfect romantic retreat for winter wanderers(Image credit: The Bull Charlbury. Design: Phil Winser and James Gummer)The countryside of Vietnam, another nation believed to be on the traveling community's radar in 2025(Image credit: Getty Images)The Daniel Arsham-designed Kohler cabin in Wisconsin is the go-to destination for an arty staycation(Image credit: Kohler Co. Design: Daniel Arsham)While quite travel values repose and regeneration through activities that can favor a better quality of life, slow travel extends that invigorating effect to the places we visit, too. Contrary to the past, "2025 is seeing a real move towards less rushed vacations; stays that can foster deeper interactions with a place than whistle-stop tours to tick off bucket-list sights," Harley explains. As one of the biggest travel trends of 2025, slow travel wants us to reassess what it actually means to travel, making us aware of the impact of our choices.Since the pandemic, "people seem to be much more thoughtful about how they travel," Brenda Beltrán, Travel Writer and Content Manager at Holafly, tells me. They don't just look for experiences "that feel personal and that matter to them," she adds, "but they are also more inclined to engage with local cultures, make sustainable choices, and spend more time in one place."Staycations'Staycations', or vacations spent in our home country rather than abroad, have first come to the fore amid the post-COVID-19 limbo, when people didn't brave venturing outside of national borders for fear of unexpected negative repercussions. Nearly five years on since the outbreak, and with overseas travel now back in full force, this trend hasn't got any less prominent. Instead, it has just become one of the best, most popular, and most sustainable, ways to travel.According to recent research from Away Resorts, 52% of UK travelers will spend their time off somewhere in the country this year, while in the US, domestic travel is "projected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, driven by a renewed interest in local experiences". Staycation options are as varied as ever, and not always requiring you to jump on a plane in order to reach them, rather eco-conscious, too.Still wondering where to go in 2025? You could opt for an under-the-radar lodge, like Livingetc's Style Editor Julia Demer did when she spent a weekend at the surreally beautiful Daniel Arsham's Kohler cabin, or, drawing on insights from Campspot's (Re)Creation Vacation 2025 Trend Outlook, drive to the 'nostalgic hotspots' expected to enjoy a renaissance as some of this year's most popular outdoor destinations, including West Yellowstone, Traverse City, Miami, Bar Harbor, and Grand Canyon. You could check if the minimalist chic guesthouses of Danish furniture and homeware brand Vipp have landed anywhere near you, making them your refuge for a day or two. Alternatively, if you are in Britain, you might indulge in the design-forward resurgence of historical pubs with rooms — as I did during a recent stay at the modern rustic décor idyll that is The Bull Charlbury.An underrated cultural and natural wonder, Cambodia is set to be one of this year's most sought-after destinations(Image credit: Getty Images)Off-the-Beaten-PathAlthough it might sound counterintuitive, going for unconventional and less traveled destinations — however remote those might be — is yet another side of the slow travel movement. Making a conscious effort not to flock in mass to the ever-crowded Rome, Paris, Barcelona, and New York, instead booking longer holidays in 'off-the-beaten-path' regions, might well be the way forward, or at least that is what experts suggest in regards to travel 2025 trend predictions. So what are some of the best places to visit this year if you want to give slow travel a go? Get ready to be spoilt for choice."A less crowded alternative to Dubrovnik in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina is being heralded as the rising star of The Balkans for 2025," says Wild Frontiers' Clare Tobin, who mentions its awe-inspiring nature, burgeoning wine industry, and scenic cycle routes as some of its greatest highlights. But the country isn't the only Eastern European location on the rise. In Latvia, "unspoiled beaches, ancient castles and Europe's widest waterfall" are all one booking away, Travelzoo's Communications Director Cat Jordan explains, while Gulet Cruise Montenegro's Alexandra Iordan looks at "Montenegro's untouched nature, rich history, and vibrant culture" as the secrets to a perfect getaway.Meanwhile, underrated destinations in Central and East Asia are gaining momentum, too. For Explore Worldwide's Michael Edwards, "South Korea is the place to visit" this year. "A relatively unexplored slice of Asia, the country seamlessly juxtaposes over 5,000 years of culture and history with all things hyper-modern," he explains. Check the retro-futuristic lobby and rooms of Busan's color-block Coolest Hotel and you will know Edwards' prediction is spot on.Still, there are more Asian explorations to try out this year. According to James Adkin, Product Manager at Explore Worldwide, "there's a huge amount of interest in the Silk Road at the moment, both culturally and historically," with bookings to Uzbekistan rising up 52% compared to last year. Countries like Cambodia, with its "untouched beaches and breathtaking scenery", and abundant wildlife, "tick several travel boxes," explains Jordan, while Holiday Extras' has Vietnam's Côn Đảo archipelago down as the best place to visit between November and April 2025.3. Passion — and Event — TourismImage 1 of 4Osaka, the host of the 2025 EXPO, is known for its vibrant nightlife and culinary scene, as well as for its immersive natural parks(Image credit: Getty Images)Hotel Peter and Paul is one of New Orleans' coolest design hotels, making it the perfect stay for travelers wanting to enjoy the 2025 Super Bowl LIX in style(Image credit: Hotel Peter and Paul. Design: StudioWTA, ASH NYC, and Nathalie Jordi)Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim's "The Form" (2024), one of the colossal artworks presented as part of Frieze Sculpture, which returns to London 15-19 October 2025 alongside Frieze and Frieze Masters(Image credit: Linda Nylind. Courtesy of Linda Nylind and Frieze)The minimalist, chic interiors of Hotel Volkshaus Basel, a must-know destination for creatives looking to attend the Basel 2025 Eurovision (13-17 May) or Art Basel 2025 (19-22 June)(Image credit: Hotel Volkshaus Basel. Design: Herzog & de Meuron)Last year, record-smashing pop singer Taylor Swift's North American Eras Tour had a $2 billion impact on the US economy, with tour locations seeing direct correlation between concert dates and spikes in hotel bookings (Check out Livingetc's interiors-led deep dive into Taylor Swift property to catch a glimpse of her estate empire). In Philadelphia, for example, May was the strongest hotel revenue month, coinciding with the music artist's presence in town. Across Europe, hotel prices in concert cities increased by an average of 44%, while in Singapore alone, inbound flights, accommodation bookings, and tours to local attractions grew by 186%, 462%, and 2,373% during the local leg of the Eras Tour, Trip.com reported.For LaDell Carter, Lead Luxury Lifestyle Travel Designer and Founder of Royal Expression Travels, passion-led tourism is not going anywhere in 2025. "Travel has always been an emotional purchase, but now more than ever, it's an act of self-prioritization and purpose," she tells me. Today, "it is not just about where people go, but why they are going and how their unique needs are met along the way." Rebecca Recommends's Rebecca Slater couldn't agree more. "This year we expect to see travel plans centered around major events, and not just concerts," the Founder explains. "Whether it's witnessing the Sydney New Year's Eve Fireworks, catching the Super Bowl LIX action in New Orleans, or checking off a bucket list trip at the Monaco Grand Prix, there are numerous significant events around the world that are already attracting attention."Already noted in our books are the Frieze fairs (20-23 February, Los Angeles. 7-11 May, New York. 15-19 October, London); the Expo 2025 (13 April-13 October 2025), with Osaka, Japan's second-largest city, playing as host; the Eurovision Song Contest (13-17 May 2025), which lands in Basel, Switzerland's creative capital, in late spring, a month ahead of the Art Basel exhibition (19-22 June 2025); Milan Design Week (7-13 April 2025), including Salone del Mobile; and the long-anticipated reunion tour of Oasis, coming to the UK 4 July-17 August 2025.When it comes to passion tourism, which doesn't merely include trips related to specific events, but encompasses a thorough (and recently, even AI-assisted) personalization of all aspects of the journey, the secret "lies in the details," Carter explains. This 2025 travel trend is all about "delving into the intricacies of each traveler's passions and preferences," she adds. "Take Canyon Ranch in Arizona, for example. When I visited with colleagues, it didn't feel like a group trip — it was all about my personal path. From curated workout routines to tailored wellness consultations, every moment was designed around me. Their ambassador had planned everything in advance, and by the time I arrived, it felt like they had known me for years." That, for her, is "the magic of passion-led travel — it transforms a destination into a deeply personal journey."4. Adventure TravelImage 1 of 8Luxury group Belmond is at the forefront of the train renaissance, and the images of its rail solutions speak for themselves(Image credit: Belmond)The interiors are a one-way-ticket to an Agatha Christie's mystery(Image credit: Belmond)The brutalist exterior of Paradero Todos Santos, an experiential luxury hotel nestled in the Mexican desert(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)Our Habitas AlUla, a sustainable desert resort housed within the orangey dunes of the Ashar Valley, Saudi Arabia(Image credit: Our Habitas AlUla. Design: Habitas)The breathtaking views surrounding Paradero Todos Santos(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)The ferrata trail near Amangiri, a spectacular luxury resort in Canyon Point, Utah(Image credit: Amangiri)Another detail from a Belmond train, captured as it speeds by(Image credit: Belmond)... and its atmospheric golden hour(Image credit: Belmond)If there's a leitmotif that permeates all the travel 2025 trends, it is a desire for experiences that feel as challenging and personal as they are unforgettable. It is the rise of the "adventure travel boom", which, as Much Better Adventures CMO and Co-Founder Sam Bruce puts it, "is fueled by those craving immersive experiences and an escape from the humdrum of daily life." For the travel expert, this trend doesn't just offer physical, mental, and social benefits, but when done right, "it boosts local economies far more sustainably than traditional tourism," he adds.Traditionally, adventure travel comprises anything from "going kayaking and wildlife spotting" to "hiking in less-visited regions of Europe". This Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report gives it the design treatment: think lavishly furnished, flashing trains straight out of an Agatha Christie thriller, luxury glamping resorts and cabins immersed in the glowing Arabian desert, and opencast Mexican resorts bringing brutalist interiors to life through safari tours, art itineraries, as well as fitness, surf, and cooking classes.Ditch the Plane for the Train2025 might as well be called the year of the train. Why? Not only is the British Railway celebrating its 200th anniversary, but a whole new range of retro-inspired luxury trains, inspired by the legendary 1883 Orient Express and bringing its Art Deco design style into the contemporary, are coming to multiple locations across the globe, making traveling as timeless and captivating as it has ever been.Among such anticipated openings are those of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, an all-Italian designed train created to connect Rome to destinations like Venice and Sicily, with décor reviving the creative genius of 1960s to 1970s icons Gio Ponti, Nanda Vigo, and Gae Aulenti signed by Dimorestudio; the Britannic Explorer, the latest newcomer to Belmond's dazzling railway portfolio, and England and Wales' first luxury sleeper train; SJ Norge's Norient Express, promising a six-day adventure through some of Norway's most scenic landscapes; the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, which will take you to the discovery of one of the world's most ancient trading network and the marvels sited along it; and the American Dreamstar Lines, a nightly luxury train operating between Los Angeles and San Francisco, with interiors by Designworks.From the vibrant Seven Stars in Kyushu, an emblem of Japan's time-traveling craftsmanship, to the Wes Anderson-esque Maharajas' Express, offering exclusive journeys across North-West and Central India, and South Africa's Rovos Rail, guiding you across the Rainbow Nation through Namibia and Tanzania, the world has far more trains today than you would expect it to have — and they are taking us back to the future! For Journeyscape's Rebecca Harley, this trend reflects "a growing urge for sustainable exploration and meaningful experiences." In Canada, "travelers seek to reduce their carbon footprint while taking in the country's breathtaking landscapes," she says, adding that locations like the Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec have all become more easily accessible through iconic routes such as Via Rail. "Trains offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and scenic immersion, making an especially appealing option for solo travelers who prioritize safety and ease."From hiking, climbing, and boating, to yoga and horseback riding, everything is possible at AmangiriGoing SoloHarley's mention of solo travelers isn't in any way coincidental. According to Intrepid Travel CCO Leigh Barnes, "the desire to travel is so strong that most young adults may not be waiting for friends, family, or anyone else to book their trip, and are willing to go solo." A recent study conducted by the company showed that "nearly four in five US adults say they have taken or would be interested in taking a solo trip, with nearly nine in ten adults aged 18-35 saying the same," he adds. For Charnell Ward, PR Specialist at Pearl Lemon Adventures, solo travelers are among the greatest protagonists of the 2025 travel trends: "they are increasingly seeking experiences that balance independence with a sense of community, such as joining wellness retreats or adventure tours where connections form naturally," she says.Because of their wide-ranging on-site activities and just as impressive modern interior design, we think that destinations like Paradero Todos Santos, rising at the very tip of the Baja California Sur state, the Ashar Valley's Our Habitas AlUla resort and Caravan accommodations, and the Utah-based Amangiri "adrenaline-fueled adventure and peaceful desert retreats" would make the ultimate solution for tasteful solo travelers with insatiable wanderlust.5. When, Not WhereImage 1 of 8The sophisticated mountain feel of the cōmodo, a design gem in the Austrian Alps(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)... and its snowy views(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)The modern rustic feel of Casa Cook North Coast, an Egyptian resort with style to spare(Image credit: Casa Cook North Coast. Design: Vision Alphabet and Shehab A. Mazhar Architects)The aurora borealis, as experienced from Welcome Beyond's Aurora Cabin in Laupstad, Norway(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)The modernist exterior of Boca de Agua, a stunning, tropical Mexican retreat(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)The view from one of the suites of the Casa Cook El Gouna, sited on the Red Sea(Image credit: Casa Cook El Gouna. Design: Common Architecture)Boca de Agua's iconic interiors(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)Perhaps the biggest 2025 travel trend of them all, 'When, Not Where' sees the world's wanderers plan their much-awaited getaways as a way out of extreme temperatures and the frenzy of everyday life. Rather than traveling at the peak of summer, or winter, more people seem to be interested in "uncovering a different side to a destination by exploring outside of conventional times," Ayaka Hasegawa, PR Manager at Luxury Tour Operator Black Tomato, tells me.Joining 'cool-' and 'warmcations' — or the journeys we take to foreign destinations in an attempt to avoid the heat and frost in our countries — respectively, "noctourism has emerged as a micro trend of its own", with people wandering around their chosen holiday locations at night "to escape daytime crowds, witness once-in-a-lifetime natural phenomena, and enjoy the place at a more relaxed pace," adds the expert. Meanwhile, the growing popularity of the off- and shoulder seasons, a symptom of the shift towards more sustainable ways of conceiving travel, allows travelers to interact with the beauty of coveted destinations like New Zealand and Australia — previously overlooked during the cooler months — in completely new ways.If places like Egypt's Common Architecture-designed Casa Cook El Gouna and the modernist paradise of Balacar's Boca de Agua grant you a balmy respite from winter's below-zero temperatures, Welcome Beyond's Scandinavian design-inspired properties such as The Cliff in Quebec and Laupstad's Aurora Cabin are your portal into nature's wonders and interior (as well as exterior) coolness.2025 has only just begun, but we know travel will be a huge part of it. Whether pointing you in the direction of the best places to visit this year and the most design-worthy accommodations available there, or convincing you to take up solo travel for the very first time, we hope this Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report has given you a reason to be on the move — whether literally or metaphorically.With climate change manifesting dramatically as we write, this year's travel predictions urge us to focus on the when, how, and why of tourism far more than on the where alone. Let this guide you in planning journeys that can nurture you and your close ones as much as they contribute sensibly to the environment around you. And if you are stuck for inspiration, head to our hotel design pages, your online directory to stylish escapism. Source link

[romaleen]

Every year, as the darkness of the coldest months sinks in, the only thing that keeps me going is knowing that, sooner or later, I will take a break from my work routine, pack my bags, and travel somewhere I have likely never been before. Of course, I am not the only one to feel this way. The fact that most vacation bookings are made between the end of the holiday season and January is a clear indication of how our wanderlust peaks in winter, prompting us to search for the latest travel trends and the best destinations to tick off our bucket list as we wait impatiently to visit them first-hand.But travel trends, or the forecasting of the places, interests, and modalities that will define people's journeys in the year ahead, don't exclusively concern "travel". Quite the opposite, they are a reflection of society as a whole; a reaction to the myriad of phenomena that — however consciously — shape the way we live right now, from the rise of social media and AI, to the hyper-productivity demanded by contemporary workplaces, the unfolding of climate change, and pop culture. What does that mean? It means that, whether or not we are aware of it, the locations at the center of our travel itineraries, how we choose to reach them, and the reasons and purposes behind our vacations are not casual, but embody the state of our lives today. These travel trends reveal what drives and inspires us, what we fear we lack, and are therefore trying to get more of, and what we would like to become in the future.Merging exclusive insights from multiple industry experts, this Livingetc report doesn't bring mere advice on where to go in 2025: it also captures the nuances of our urge to explore, and outlines how we can continue to do so without harming the nature and the communities around us — all while putting extraordinary design at the forefront.At Amangiri, a 5-star luxury resort in Utah's dramatic Canyon Point, relaxation and adventure collide(Image credit: Amangiri. Design: Marwan Al-Sayed, Wendell Burnette, and Rick Joy)What Are the Biggest Travel Trends for 2025?While travel trends may differ from nation to nation, our look forward at the moods, hobbies, and countries that will serve as the real protagonists of 2025 gives a polarized portrait of the world at a glance. If, on the one hand, more and more wanderers seem to be seeking holidays that can grant them the peace of mind they miss in their everyday lives by chasing after wellness retreats, slow living destinations, and quieter getaways than the usual city breaks, for others, travel is all about adrenaline. Electrifying solo — or train-hopping — adventures and wilderness-absorbed accommodations that evoke thrill, awe, or even danger, are as appealing to the world's travel community as their calm-inducing counterparts.Despite their diverging end goals, both are brought together by the same rule: where we travel in 2025 is not that important; what matters is when, how, and why we do it. Shoulder seasons, or the periods between a region's peak season and offseason, are gaining momentum, with travelers opting for less canonical moments of the year to be on the move, or planning their escapes to coincide with the coldest — or hottest — months. This helps mitigate the environmental and social impact of over-tourism, also granting vacationers a more enjoyable stay. As for the how, 2025 travel trends are synonymous with restfulness, connection, and personalization: think curated itineraries that unearth hidden trails, blending art, culture, food, community, and sport into a multifaceted experience to be savored on your own or with your loved ones.Without further ado: these are 2025's biggest travel trends.1. CalmcationsImage 1 of 4The tranquil atmosphere at Hume, a wellness-focused club in Venice Beach, California(Image credit: Yoshihiro Makino and Hume. Design: Wisan Studio and Bricault Design)The sun-lit interiors of Californian winery Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)An historical building has been turned into a design lover's dream at Casa Salento, a calm retreat in southern Italy's Puglia region(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)Some of the crafty workshop held on site at Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)If 2025 travel trends could be summed up in a sentence, it would be: we need a break. And no, it is not the winter blues speaking, it is the global community as a whole. Two weeks into the year, "we're seeing a rise in clients booking 'quiet travel', with travelers seeking to escape the noise of everyday life — whether that's noise from content, work, other people, or even your own thoughts," Carolyn Weppler, Senior Vice President at Goway tells me.The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.Directing visitors towards more rural, secluded locations instead of bustling metropolises, these "calmcations" are characterized by a stronger immersion in nature and a focus on restoring our physical, mental, and emotional balance. Prioritizing our primal needs over visits to "must-see attractions", quiet travel invites us to put ourselves first — even, and especially, on vacation.Wellness RetreatsThis isn't a travel trend that is bound to fizzle as people settle into the year, but the opposite. In the coming weeks, "the demand for wellness-focused retreats is only set to rise as wanderers seek restorative experiences that prioritize their physical and mental well-being," says Rebecca Harley, Marketing Manager at Journeyscape. "Coastal destinations, mountain resorts, and lakeside lodges across North America are tailoring their offerings to include mindfulness workshops, yoga retreats, and nature-based therapies." Providing an antidote to the fast-paced digital world, these experiences emphasize "the importance of rejuvenation, making them particularly attractive to both solo adventurers and groups seeking meaningful connection."The bathed-in-sunlight gardens of Nice's Hôtel du Couvent, a leading example of contemporary agrotourism(Image credit: Giulio Ghirardi. Courtesy of Hôtel du Couvent. Design: Tom Stuart-Smith Ltd and Scape Design)Agrotourism and Natural Wonders GetawaysPlaces like Fairfield's Caymus-Suisun, a sun-baked Californian winery spectacularly crafted by local design studio The Bureau, offer an alternative way of embracing the 'calmcation' concept. Open for food and wine tastings, here you can "pick fruit in our orchards, and walk the vineyards and vegetable garden," explain Founders Chuck, Charlie, and Jenny Wagner, whose project falls under the newly surfacing category of 'agrotourism'.In recent years, more hotels and resorts have started integrating visits to kitchen gardens and connected farms in their offering, showcasing the quality of their produce and facilitating enriching exchanges between staff and visitors. At Poggi del Sasso's Castello di Vicarello, for example, "you'll enjoy farm-to-table dining with organic ingredients sourced directly from the estate's gardens and olive groves," East End Taste founder Vanessa Gordon tells me, recalling her sojourn at the property. "With over 50 varieties of vegetables and 30 aromatic herbs, their chefs craft authentic Tuscan dishes that highlight the freshest local flavors, and the castle even has their own wine that they bottle and sell."Another local resort, Rosewood's Castiglion del Bosco, "utilizes a similar approach on a grander scale," she says. "They grow much of their own herbs in a garden that guests can walk around, besides having onsite cooking classes and truffle hunting classes, and a winery near the premises." Particularly popular in American states like Arizona and California, and Italy's evergreen Trentino, Tuscany, and Umbria, 'agrotourism' is just another form of quiet travel. This also counts for "natural wonders getaways," explains Weppler. "Think of excursions to places like Kenya's Maasai Mara and Serengeti, Australia's Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, Mount Fuji, the Alaska Glaciers, and the Swiss Alps."2. Slow TravelImage 1 of 6An aerial view of Uzbekistan's mountain ranges, one of the unexpected destinations predicted to be big this year(Image credit: Getty Images)The color-block hotel lobby of Busan's Coolest Hotel lives up to the stay's name(Image credit: Studio SIM. Courtesy of The Coolest Hotel. Design: Jongkim Design Studio and Design Madonna)Uzbekistan's rich cultural heritage and history is tangible in its colorfully intricate architecture(Image credit: Getty Images)The biggest room at The Bull Charlbury makes the perfect romantic retreat for winter wanderers(Image credit: The Bull Charlbury. Design: Phil Winser and James Gummer)The countryside of Vietnam, another nation believed to be on the traveling community's radar in 2025(Image credit: Getty Images)The Daniel Arsham-designed Kohler cabin in Wisconsin is the go-to destination for an arty staycation(Image credit: Kohler Co. Design: Daniel Arsham)While quite travel values repose and regeneration through activities that can favor a better quality of life, slow travel extends that invigorating effect to the places we visit, too. Contrary to the past, "2025 is seeing a real move towards less rushed vacations; stays that can foster deeper interactions with a place than whistle-stop tours to tick off bucket-list sights," Harley explains. As one of the biggest travel trends of 2025, slow travel wants us to reassess what it actually means to travel, making us aware of the impact of our choices.Since the pandemic, "people seem to be much more thoughtful about how they travel," Brenda Beltrán, Travel Writer and Content Manager at Holafly, tells me. They don't just look for experiences "that feel personal and that matter to them," she adds, "but they are also more inclined to engage with local cultures, make sustainable choices, and spend more time in one place."Staycations'Staycations', or vacations spent in our home country rather than abroad, have first come to the fore amid the post-COVID-19 limbo, when people didn't brave venturing outside of national borders for fear of unexpected negative repercussions. Nearly five years on since the outbreak, and with overseas travel now back in full force, this trend hasn't got any less prominent. Instead, it has just become one of the best, most popular, and most sustainable, ways to travel.According to recent research from Away Resorts, 52% of UK travelers will spend their time off somewhere in the country this year, while in the US, domestic travel is "projected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, driven by a renewed interest in local experiences". Staycation options are as varied as ever, and not always requiring you to jump on a plane in order to reach them, rather eco-conscious, too.Still wondering where to go in 2025? You could opt for an under-the-radar lodge, like Livingetc's Style Editor Julia Demer did when she spent a weekend at the surreally beautiful Daniel Arsham's Kohler cabin, or, drawing on insights from Campspot's (Re)Creation Vacation 2025 Trend Outlook, drive to the 'nostalgic hotspots' expected to enjoy a renaissance as some of this year's most popular outdoor destinations, including West Yellowstone, Traverse City, Miami, Bar Harbor, and Grand Canyon. You could check if the minimalist chic guesthouses of Danish furniture and homeware brand Vipp have landed anywhere near you, making them your refuge for a day or two. Alternatively, if you are in Britain, you might indulge in the design-forward resurgence of historical pubs with rooms — as I did during a recent stay at the modern rustic décor idyll that is The Bull Charlbury.An underrated cultural and natural wonder, Cambodia is set to be one of this year's most sought-after destinations(Image credit: Getty Images)Off-the-Beaten-PathAlthough it might sound counterintuitive, going for unconventional and less traveled destinations — however remote those might be — is yet another side of the slow travel movement. Making a conscious effort not to flock in mass to the ever-crowded Rome, Paris, Barcelona, and New York, instead booking longer holidays in 'off-the-beaten-path' regions, might well be the way forward, or at least that is what experts suggest in regards to travel 2025 trend predictions. So what are some of the best places to visit this year if you want to give slow travel a go? Get ready to be spoilt for choice."A less crowded alternative to Dubrovnik in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina is being heralded as the rising star of The Balkans for 2025," says Wild Frontiers' Clare Tobin, who mentions its awe-inspiring nature, burgeoning wine industry, and scenic cycle routes as some of its greatest highlights. But the country isn't the only Eastern European location on the rise. In Latvia, "unspoiled beaches, ancient castles and Europe's widest waterfall" are all one booking away, Travelzoo's Communications Director Cat Jordan explains, while Gulet Cruise Montenegro's Alexandra Iordan looks at "Montenegro's untouched nature, rich history, and vibrant culture" as the secrets to a perfect getaway.Meanwhile, underrated destinations in Central and East Asia are gaining momentum, too. For Explore Worldwide's Michael Edwards, "South Korea is the place to visit" this year. "A relatively unexplored slice of Asia, the country seamlessly juxtaposes over 5,000 years of culture and history with all things hyper-modern," he explains. Check the retro-futuristic lobby and rooms of Busan's color-block Coolest Hotel and you will know Edwards' prediction is spot on.Still, there are more Asian explorations to try out this year. According to James Adkin, Product Manager at Explore Worldwide, "there's a huge amount of interest in the Silk Road at the moment, both culturally and historically," with bookings to Uzbekistan rising up 52% compared to last year. Countries like Cambodia, with its "untouched beaches and breathtaking scenery", and abundant wildlife, "tick several travel boxes," explains Jordan, while Holiday Extras' has Vietnam's Côn Đảo archipelago down as the best place to visit between November and April 2025.3. Passion — and Event — TourismImage 1 of 4Osaka, the host of the 2025 EXPO, is known for its vibrant nightlife and culinary scene, as well as for its immersive natural parks(Image credit: Getty Images)Hotel Peter and Paul is one of New Orleans' coolest design hotels, making it the perfect stay for travelers wanting to enjoy the 2025 Super Bowl LIX in style(Image credit: Hotel Peter and Paul. Design: StudioWTA, ASH NYC, and Nathalie Jordi)Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim's "The Form" (2024), one of the colossal artworks presented as part of Frieze Sculpture, which returns to London 15-19 October 2025 alongside Frieze and Frieze Masters(Image credit: Linda Nylind. Courtesy of Linda Nylind and Frieze)The minimalist, chic interiors of Hotel Volkshaus Basel, a must-know destination for creatives looking to attend the Basel 2025 Eurovision (13-17 May) or Art Basel 2025 (19-22 June)(Image credit: Hotel Volkshaus Basel. Design: Herzog & de Meuron)Last year, record-smashing pop singer Taylor Swift's North American Eras Tour had a $2 billion impact on the US economy, with tour locations seeing direct correlation between concert dates and spikes in hotel bookings (Check out Livingetc's interiors-led deep dive into Taylor Swift property to catch a glimpse of her estate empire). In Philadelphia, for example, May was the strongest hotel revenue month, coinciding with the music artist's presence in town. Across Europe, hotel prices in concert cities increased by an average of 44%, while in Singapore alone, inbound flights, accommodation bookings, and tours to local attractions grew by 186%, 462%, and 2,373% during the local leg of the Eras Tour, Trip.com reported.For LaDell Carter, Lead Luxury Lifestyle Travel Designer and Founder of Royal Expression Travels, passion-led tourism is not going anywhere in 2025. "Travel has always been an emotional purchase, but now more than ever, it's an act of self-prioritization and purpose," she tells me. Today, "it is not just about where people go, but why they are going and how their unique needs are met along the way." Rebecca Recommends's Rebecca Slater couldn't agree more. "This year we expect to see travel plans centered around major events, and not just concerts," the Founder explains. "Whether it's witnessing the Sydney New Year's Eve Fireworks, catching the Super Bowl LIX action in New Orleans, or checking off a bucket list trip at the Monaco Grand Prix, there are numerous significant events around the world that are already attracting attention."Already noted in our books are the Frieze fairs (20-23 February, Los Angeles. 7-11 May, New York. 15-19 October, London); the Expo 2025 (13 April-13 October 2025), with Osaka, Japan's second-largest city, playing as host; the Eurovision Song Contest (13-17 May 2025), which lands in Basel, Switzerland's creative capital, in late spring, a month ahead of the Art Basel exhibition (19-22 June 2025); Milan Design Week (7-13 April 2025), including Salone del Mobile; and the long-anticipated reunion tour of Oasis, coming to the UK 4 July-17 August 2025.When it comes to passion tourism, which doesn't merely include trips related to specific events, but encompasses a thorough (and recently, even AI-assisted) personalization of all aspects of the journey, the secret "lies in the details," Carter explains. This 2025 travel trend is all about "delving into the intricacies of each traveler's passions and preferences," she adds. "Take Canyon Ranch in Arizona, for example. When I visited with colleagues, it didn't feel like a group trip — it was all about my personal path. From curated workout routines to tailored wellness consultations, every moment was designed around me. Their ambassador had planned everything in advance, and by the time I arrived, it felt like they had known me for years." That, for her, is "the magic of passion-led travel — it transforms a destination into a deeply personal journey."4. Adventure TravelImage 1 of 8Luxury group Belmond is at the forefront of the train renaissance, and the images of its rail solutions speak for themselves(Image credit: Belmond)The interiors are a one-way-ticket to an Agatha Christie's mystery(Image credit: Belmond)The brutalist exterior of Paradero Todos Santos, an experiential luxury hotel nestled in the Mexican desert(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)Our Habitas AlUla, a sustainable desert resort housed within the orangey dunes of the Ashar Valley, Saudi Arabia(Image credit: Our Habitas AlUla. Design: Habitas)The breathtaking views surrounding Paradero Todos Santos(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)The ferrata trail near Amangiri, a spectacular luxury resort in Canyon Point, Utah(Image credit: Amangiri)Another detail from a Belmond train, captured as it speeds by(Image credit: Belmond)... and its atmospheric golden hour(Image credit: Belmond)If there's a leitmotif that permeates all the travel 2025 trends, it is a desire for experiences that feel as challenging and personal as they are unforgettable. It is the rise of the "adventure travel boom", which, as Much Better Adventures CMO and Co-Founder Sam Bruce puts it, "is fueled by those craving immersive experiences and an escape from the humdrum of daily life." For the travel expert, this trend doesn't just offer physical, mental, and social benefits, but when done right, "it boosts local economies far more sustainably than traditional tourism," he adds.Traditionally, adventure travel comprises anything from "going kayaking and wildlife spotting" to "hiking in less-visited regions of Europe". This Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report gives it the design treatment: think lavishly furnished, flashing trains straight out of an Agatha Christie thriller, luxury glamping resorts and cabins immersed in the glowing Arabian desert, and opencast Mexican resorts bringing brutalist interiors to life through safari tours, art itineraries, as well as fitness, surf, and cooking classes.Ditch the Plane for the Train2025 might as well be called the year of the train. Why? Not only is the British Railway celebrating its 200th anniversary, but a whole new range of retro-inspired luxury trains, inspired by the legendary 1883 Orient Express and bringing its Art Deco design style into the contemporary, are coming to multiple locations across the globe, making traveling as timeless and captivating as it has ever been.Among such anticipated openings are those of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, an all-Italian designed train created to connect Rome to destinations like Venice and Sicily, with décor reviving the creative genius of 1960s to 1970s icons Gio Ponti, Nanda Vigo, and Gae Aulenti signed by Dimorestudio; the Britannic Explorer, the latest newcomer to Belmond's dazzling railway portfolio, and England and Wales' first luxury sleeper train; SJ Norge's Norient Express, promising a six-day adventure through some of Norway's most scenic landscapes; the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, which will take you to the discovery of one of the world's most ancient trading network and the marvels sited along it; and the American Dreamstar Lines, a nightly luxury train operating between Los Angeles and San Francisco, with interiors by Designworks.From the vibrant Seven Stars in Kyushu, an emblem of Japan's time-traveling craftsmanship, to the Wes Anderson-esque Maharajas' Express, offering exclusive journeys across North-West and Central India, and South Africa's Rovos Rail, guiding you across the Rainbow Nation through Namibia and Tanzania, the world has far more trains today than you would expect it to have — and they are taking us back to the future! For Journeyscape's Rebecca Harley, this trend reflects "a growing urge for sustainable exploration and meaningful experiences." In Canada, "travelers seek to reduce their carbon footprint while taking in the country's breathtaking landscapes," she says, adding that locations like the Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec have all become more easily accessible through iconic routes such as Via Rail. "Trains offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and scenic immersion, making an especially appealing option for solo travelers who prioritize safety and ease."From hiking, climbing, and boating, to yoga and horseback riding, everything is possible at AmangiriGoing SoloHarley's mention of solo travelers isn't in any way coincidental. According to Intrepid Travel CCO Leigh Barnes, "the desire to travel is so strong that most young adults may not be waiting for friends, family, or anyone else to book their trip, and are willing to go solo." A recent study conducted by the company showed that "nearly four in five US adults say they have taken or would be interested in taking a solo trip, with nearly nine in ten adults aged 18-35 saying the same," he adds. For Charnell Ward, PR Specialist at Pearl Lemon Adventures, solo travelers are among the greatest protagonists of the 2025 travel trends: "they are increasingly seeking experiences that balance independence with a sense of community, such as joining wellness retreats or adventure tours where connections form naturally," she says.Because of their wide-ranging on-site activities and just as impressive modern interior design, we think that destinations like Paradero Todos Santos, rising at the very tip of the Baja California Sur state, the Ashar Valley's Our Habitas AlUla resort and Caravan accommodations, and the Utah-based Amangiri "adrenaline-fueled adventure and peaceful desert retreats" would make the ultimate solution for tasteful solo travelers with insatiable wanderlust.5. When, Not WhereImage 1 of 8The sophisticated mountain feel of the cōmodo, a design gem in the Austrian Alps(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)... and its snowy views(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)The modern rustic feel of Casa Cook North Coast, an Egyptian resort with style to spare(Image credit: Casa Cook North Coast. Design: Vision Alphabet and Shehab A. Mazhar Architects)The aurora borealis, as experienced from Welcome Beyond's Aurora Cabin in Laupstad, Norway(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)The modernist exterior of Boca de Agua, a stunning, tropical Mexican retreat(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)The view from one of the suites of the Casa Cook El Gouna, sited on the Red Sea(Image credit: Casa Cook El Gouna. Design: Common Architecture)Boca de Agua's iconic interiors(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)Perhaps the biggest 2025 travel trend of them all, 'When, Not Where' sees the world's wanderers plan their much-awaited getaways as a way out of extreme temperatures and the frenzy of everyday life. Rather than traveling at the peak of summer, or winter, more people seem to be interested in "uncovering a different side to a destination by exploring outside of conventional times," Ayaka Hasegawa, PR Manager at Luxury Tour Operator Black Tomato, tells me.Joining 'cool-' and 'warmcations' — or the journeys we take to foreign destinations in an attempt to avoid the heat and frost in our countries — respectively, "noctourism has emerged as a micro trend of its own", with people wandering around their chosen holiday locations at night "to escape daytime crowds, witness once-in-a-lifetime natural phenomena, and enjoy the place at a more relaxed pace," adds the expert. Meanwhile, the growing popularity of the off- and shoulder seasons, a symptom of the shift towards more sustainable ways of conceiving travel, allows travelers to interact with the beauty of coveted destinations like New Zealand and Australia — previously overlooked during the cooler months — in completely new ways.If places like Egypt's Common Architecture-designed Casa Cook El Gouna and the modernist paradise of Balacar's Boca de Agua grant you a balmy respite from winter's below-zero temperatures, Welcome Beyond's Scandinavian design-inspired properties such as The Cliff in Quebec and Laupstad's Aurora Cabin are your portal into nature's wonders and interior (as well as exterior) coolness.2025 has only just begun, but we know travel will be a huge part of it. Whether pointing you in the direction of the best places to visit this year and the most design-worthy accommodations available there, or convincing you to take up solo travel for the very first time, we hope this Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report has given you a reason to be on the move — whether literally or metaphorically.With climate change manifesting dramatically as we write, this year's travel predictions urge us to focus on the when, how, and why of tourism far more than on the where alone. Let this guide you in planning journeys that can nurture you and your close ones as much as they contribute sensibly to the environment around you. And if you are stuck for inspiration, head to our hotel design pages, your online directory to stylish escapism. Source link

[monaleen101]

Every year, as the darkness of the coldest months sinks in, the only thing that keeps me going is knowing that, sooner or later, I will take a break from my work routine, pack my bags, and travel somewhere I have likely never been before. Of course, I am not the only one to feel this way. The fact that most vacation bookings are made between the end of the holiday season and January is a clear indication of how our wanderlust peaks in winter, prompting us to search for the latest travel trends and the best destinations to tick off our bucket list as we wait impatiently to visit them first-hand.But travel trends, or the forecasting of the places, interests, and modalities that will define people's journeys in the year ahead, don't exclusively concern "travel". Quite the opposite, they are a reflection of society as a whole; a reaction to the myriad of phenomena that — however consciously — shape the way we live right now, from the rise of social media and AI, to the hyper-productivity demanded by contemporary workplaces, the unfolding of climate change, and pop culture. What does that mean? It means that, whether or not we are aware of it, the locations at the center of our travel itineraries, how we choose to reach them, and the reasons and purposes behind our vacations are not casual, but embody the state of our lives today. These travel trends reveal what drives and inspires us, what we fear we lack, and are therefore trying to get more of, and what we would like to become in the future.Merging exclusive insights from multiple industry experts, this Livingetc report doesn't bring mere advice on where to go in 2025: it also captures the nuances of our urge to explore, and outlines how we can continue to do so without harming the nature and the communities around us — all while putting extraordinary design at the forefront.At Amangiri, a 5-star luxury resort in Utah's dramatic Canyon Point, relaxation and adventure collide(Image credit: Amangiri. Design: Marwan Al-Sayed, Wendell Burnette, and Rick Joy)What Are the Biggest Travel Trends for 2025?While travel trends may differ from nation to nation, our look forward at the moods, hobbies, and countries that will serve as the real protagonists of 2025 gives a polarized portrait of the world at a glance. If, on the one hand, more and more wanderers seem to be seeking holidays that can grant them the peace of mind they miss in their everyday lives by chasing after wellness retreats, slow living destinations, and quieter getaways than the usual city breaks, for others, travel is all about adrenaline. Electrifying solo — or train-hopping — adventures and wilderness-absorbed accommodations that evoke thrill, awe, or even danger, are as appealing to the world's travel community as their calm-inducing counterparts.Despite their diverging end goals, both are brought together by the same rule: where we travel in 2025 is not that important; what matters is when, how, and why we do it. Shoulder seasons, or the periods between a region's peak season and offseason, are gaining momentum, with travelers opting for less canonical moments of the year to be on the move, or planning their escapes to coincide with the coldest — or hottest — months. This helps mitigate the environmental and social impact of over-tourism, also granting vacationers a more enjoyable stay. As for the how, 2025 travel trends are synonymous with restfulness, connection, and personalization: think curated itineraries that unearth hidden trails, blending art, culture, food, community, and sport into a multifaceted experience to be savored on your own or with your loved ones.Without further ado: these are 2025's biggest travel trends.1. CalmcationsImage 1 of 4The tranquil atmosphere at Hume, a wellness-focused club in Venice Beach, California(Image credit: Yoshihiro Makino and Hume. Design: Wisan Studio and Bricault Design)The sun-lit interiors of Californian winery Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)An historical building has been turned into a design lover's dream at Casa Salento, a calm retreat in southern Italy's Puglia region(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)Some of the crafty workshop held on site at Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)If 2025 travel trends could be summed up in a sentence, it would be: we need a break. And no, it is not the winter blues speaking, it is the global community as a whole. Two weeks into the year, "we're seeing a rise in clients booking 'quiet travel', with travelers seeking to escape the noise of everyday life — whether that's noise from content, work, other people, or even your own thoughts," Carolyn Weppler, Senior Vice President at Goway tells me.The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.Directing visitors towards more rural, secluded locations instead of bustling metropolises, these "calmcations" are characterized by a stronger immersion in nature and a focus on restoring our physical, mental, and emotional balance. Prioritizing our primal needs over visits to "must-see attractions", quiet travel invites us to put ourselves first — even, and especially, on vacation.Wellness RetreatsThis isn't a travel trend that is bound to fizzle as people settle into the year, but the opposite. In the coming weeks, "the demand for wellness-focused retreats is only set to rise as wanderers seek restorative experiences that prioritize their physical and mental well-being," says Rebecca Harley, Marketing Manager at Journeyscape. "Coastal destinations, mountain resorts, and lakeside lodges across North America are tailoring their offerings to include mindfulness workshops, yoga retreats, and nature-based therapies." Providing an antidote to the fast-paced digital world, these experiences emphasize "the importance of rejuvenation, making them particularly attractive to both solo adventurers and groups seeking meaningful connection."The bathed-in-sunlight gardens of Nice's Hôtel du Couvent, a leading example of contemporary agrotourism(Image credit: Giulio Ghirardi. Courtesy of Hôtel du Couvent. Design: Tom Stuart-Smith Ltd and Scape Design)Agrotourism and Natural Wonders GetawaysPlaces like Fairfield's Caymus-Suisun, a sun-baked Californian winery spectacularly crafted by local design studio The Bureau, offer an alternative way of embracing the 'calmcation' concept. Open for food and wine tastings, here you can "pick fruit in our orchards, and walk the vineyards and vegetable garden," explain Founders Chuck, Charlie, and Jenny Wagner, whose project falls under the newly surfacing category of 'agrotourism'.In recent years, more hotels and resorts have started integrating visits to kitchen gardens and connected farms in their offering, showcasing the quality of their produce and facilitating enriching exchanges between staff and visitors. At Poggi del Sasso's Castello di Vicarello, for example, "you'll enjoy farm-to-table dining with organic ingredients sourced directly from the estate's gardens and olive groves," East End Taste founder Vanessa Gordon tells me, recalling her sojourn at the property. "With over 50 varieties of vegetables and 30 aromatic herbs, their chefs craft authentic Tuscan dishes that highlight the freshest local flavors, and the castle even has their own wine that they bottle and sell."Another local resort, Rosewood's Castiglion del Bosco, "utilizes a similar approach on a grander scale," she says. "They grow much of their own herbs in a garden that guests can walk around, besides having onsite cooking classes and truffle hunting classes, and a winery near the premises." Particularly popular in American states like Arizona and California, and Italy's evergreen Trentino, Tuscany, and Umbria, 'agrotourism' is just another form of quiet travel. This also counts for "natural wonders getaways," explains Weppler. "Think of excursions to places like Kenya's Maasai Mara and Serengeti, Australia's Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, Mount Fuji, the Alaska Glaciers, and the Swiss Alps."2. Slow TravelImage 1 of 6An aerial view of Uzbekistan's mountain ranges, one of the unexpected destinations predicted to be big this year(Image credit: Getty Images)The color-block hotel lobby of Busan's Coolest Hotel lives up to the stay's name(Image credit: Studio SIM. Courtesy of The Coolest Hotel. Design: Jongkim Design Studio and Design Madonna)Uzbekistan's rich cultural heritage and history is tangible in its colorfully intricate architecture(Image credit: Getty Images)The biggest room at The Bull Charlbury makes the perfect romantic retreat for winter wanderers(Image credit: The Bull Charlbury. Design: Phil Winser and James Gummer)The countryside of Vietnam, another nation believed to be on the traveling community's radar in 2025(Image credit: Getty Images)The Daniel Arsham-designed Kohler cabin in Wisconsin is the go-to destination for an arty staycation(Image credit: Kohler Co. Design: Daniel Arsham)While quite travel values repose and regeneration through activities that can favor a better quality of life, slow travel extends that invigorating effect to the places we visit, too. Contrary to the past, "2025 is seeing a real move towards less rushed vacations; stays that can foster deeper interactions with a place than whistle-stop tours to tick off bucket-list sights," Harley explains. As one of the biggest travel trends of 2025, slow travel wants us to reassess what it actually means to travel, making us aware of the impact of our choices.Since the pandemic, "people seem to be much more thoughtful about how they travel," Brenda Beltrán, Travel Writer and Content Manager at Holafly, tells me. They don't just look for experiences "that feel personal and that matter to them," she adds, "but they are also more inclined to engage with local cultures, make sustainable choices, and spend more time in one place."Staycations'Staycations', or vacations spent in our home country rather than abroad, have first come to the fore amid the post-COVID-19 limbo, when people didn't brave venturing outside of national borders for fear of unexpected negative repercussions. Nearly five years on since the outbreak, and with overseas travel now back in full force, this trend hasn't got any less prominent. Instead, it has just become one of the best, most popular, and most sustainable, ways to travel.According to recent research from Away Resorts, 52% of UK travelers will spend their time off somewhere in the country this year, while in the US, domestic travel is "projected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, driven by a renewed interest in local experiences". Staycation options are as varied as ever, and not always requiring you to jump on a plane in order to reach them, rather eco-conscious, too.Still wondering where to go in 2025? You could opt for an under-the-radar lodge, like Livingetc's Style Editor Julia Demer did when she spent a weekend at the surreally beautiful Daniel Arsham's Kohler cabin, or, drawing on insights from Campspot's (Re)Creation Vacation 2025 Trend Outlook, drive to the 'nostalgic hotspots' expected to enjoy a renaissance as some of this year's most popular outdoor destinations, including West Yellowstone, Traverse City, Miami, Bar Harbor, and Grand Canyon. You could check if the minimalist chic guesthouses of Danish furniture and homeware brand Vipp have landed anywhere near you, making them your refuge for a day or two. Alternatively, if you are in Britain, you might indulge in the design-forward resurgence of historical pubs with rooms — as I did during a recent stay at the modern rustic décor idyll that is The Bull Charlbury.An underrated cultural and natural wonder, Cambodia is set to be one of this year's most sought-after destinations(Image credit: Getty Images)Off-the-Beaten-PathAlthough it might sound counterintuitive, going for unconventional and less traveled destinations — however remote those might be — is yet another side of the slow travel movement. Making a conscious effort not to flock in mass to the ever-crowded Rome, Paris, Barcelona, and New York, instead booking longer holidays in 'off-the-beaten-path' regions, might well be the way forward, or at least that is what experts suggest in regards to travel 2025 trend predictions. So what are some of the best places to visit this year if you want to give slow travel a go? Get ready to be spoilt for choice."A less crowded alternative to Dubrovnik in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina is being heralded as the rising star of The Balkans for 2025," says Wild Frontiers' Clare Tobin, who mentions its awe-inspiring nature, burgeoning wine industry, and scenic cycle routes as some of its greatest highlights. But the country isn't the only Eastern European location on the rise. In Latvia, "unspoiled beaches, ancient castles and Europe's widest waterfall" are all one booking away, Travelzoo's Communications Director Cat Jordan explains, while Gulet Cruise Montenegro's Alexandra Iordan looks at "Montenegro's untouched nature, rich history, and vibrant culture" as the secrets to a perfect getaway.Meanwhile, underrated destinations in Central and East Asia are gaining momentum, too. For Explore Worldwide's Michael Edwards, "South Korea is the place to visit" this year. "A relatively unexplored slice of Asia, the country seamlessly juxtaposes over 5,000 years of culture and history with all things hyper-modern," he explains. Check the retro-futuristic lobby and rooms of Busan's color-block Coolest Hotel and you will know Edwards' prediction is spot on.Still, there are more Asian explorations to try out this year. According to James Adkin, Product Manager at Explore Worldwide, "there's a huge amount of interest in the Silk Road at the moment, both culturally and historically," with bookings to Uzbekistan rising up 52% compared to last year. Countries like Cambodia, with its "untouched beaches and breathtaking scenery", and abundant wildlife, "tick several travel boxes," explains Jordan, while Holiday Extras' has Vietnam's Côn Đảo archipelago down as the best place to visit between November and April 2025.3. Passion — and Event — TourismImage 1 of 4Osaka, the host of the 2025 EXPO, is known for its vibrant nightlife and culinary scene, as well as for its immersive natural parks(Image credit: Getty Images)Hotel Peter and Paul is one of New Orleans' coolest design hotels, making it the perfect stay for travelers wanting to enjoy the 2025 Super Bowl LIX in style(Image credit: Hotel Peter and Paul. Design: StudioWTA, ASH NYC, and Nathalie Jordi)Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim's "The Form" (2024), one of the colossal artworks presented as part of Frieze Sculpture, which returns to London 15-19 October 2025 alongside Frieze and Frieze Masters(Image credit: Linda Nylind. Courtesy of Linda Nylind and Frieze)The minimalist, chic interiors of Hotel Volkshaus Basel, a must-know destination for creatives looking to attend the Basel 2025 Eurovision (13-17 May) or Art Basel 2025 (19-22 June)(Image credit: Hotel Volkshaus Basel. Design: Herzog & de Meuron)Last year, record-smashing pop singer Taylor Swift's North American Eras Tour had a $2 billion impact on the US economy, with tour locations seeing direct correlation between concert dates and spikes in hotel bookings (Check out Livingetc's interiors-led deep dive into Taylor Swift property to catch a glimpse of her estate empire). In Philadelphia, for example, May was the strongest hotel revenue month, coinciding with the music artist's presence in town. Across Europe, hotel prices in concert cities increased by an average of 44%, while in Singapore alone, inbound flights, accommodation bookings, and tours to local attractions grew by 186%, 462%, and 2,373% during the local leg of the Eras Tour, Trip.com reported.For LaDell Carter, Lead Luxury Lifestyle Travel Designer and Founder of Royal Expression Travels, passion-led tourism is not going anywhere in 2025. "Travel has always been an emotional purchase, but now more than ever, it's an act of self-prioritization and purpose," she tells me. Today, "it is not just about where people go, but why they are going and how their unique needs are met along the way." Rebecca Recommends's Rebecca Slater couldn't agree more. "This year we expect to see travel plans centered around major events, and not just concerts," the Founder explains. "Whether it's witnessing the Sydney New Year's Eve Fireworks, catching the Super Bowl LIX action in New Orleans, or checking off a bucket list trip at the Monaco Grand Prix, there are numerous significant events around the world that are already attracting attention."Already noted in our books are the Frieze fairs (20-23 February, Los Angeles. 7-11 May, New York. 15-19 October, London); the Expo 2025 (13 April-13 October 2025), with Osaka, Japan's second-largest city, playing as host; the Eurovision Song Contest (13-17 May 2025), which lands in Basel, Switzerland's creative capital, in late spring, a month ahead of the Art Basel exhibition (19-22 June 2025); Milan Design Week (7-13 April 2025), including Salone del Mobile; and the long-anticipated reunion tour of Oasis, coming to the UK 4 July-17 August 2025.When it comes to passion tourism, which doesn't merely include trips related to specific events, but encompasses a thorough (and recently, even AI-assisted) personalization of all aspects of the journey, the secret "lies in the details," Carter explains. This 2025 travel trend is all about "delving into the intricacies of each traveler's passions and preferences," she adds. "Take Canyon Ranch in Arizona, for example. When I visited with colleagues, it didn't feel like a group trip — it was all about my personal path. From curated workout routines to tailored wellness consultations, every moment was designed around me. Their ambassador had planned everything in advance, and by the time I arrived, it felt like they had known me for years." That, for her, is "the magic of passion-led travel — it transforms a destination into a deeply personal journey."4. Adventure TravelImage 1 of 8Luxury group Belmond is at the forefront of the train renaissance, and the images of its rail solutions speak for themselves(Image credit: Belmond)The interiors are a one-way-ticket to an Agatha Christie's mystery(Image credit: Belmond)The brutalist exterior of Paradero Todos Santos, an experiential luxury hotel nestled in the Mexican desert(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)Our Habitas AlUla, a sustainable desert resort housed within the orangey dunes of the Ashar Valley, Saudi Arabia(Image credit: Our Habitas AlUla. Design: Habitas)The breathtaking views surrounding Paradero Todos Santos(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)The ferrata trail near Amangiri, a spectacular luxury resort in Canyon Point, Utah(Image credit: Amangiri)Another detail from a Belmond train, captured as it speeds by(Image credit: Belmond)... and its atmospheric golden hour(Image credit: Belmond)If there's a leitmotif that permeates all the travel 2025 trends, it is a desire for experiences that feel as challenging and personal as they are unforgettable. It is the rise of the "adventure travel boom", which, as Much Better Adventures CMO and Co-Founder Sam Bruce puts it, "is fueled by those craving immersive experiences and an escape from the humdrum of daily life." For the travel expert, this trend doesn't just offer physical, mental, and social benefits, but when done right, "it boosts local economies far more sustainably than traditional tourism," he adds.Traditionally, adventure travel comprises anything from "going kayaking and wildlife spotting" to "hiking in less-visited regions of Europe". This Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report gives it the design treatment: think lavishly furnished, flashing trains straight out of an Agatha Christie thriller, luxury glamping resorts and cabins immersed in the glowing Arabian desert, and opencast Mexican resorts bringing brutalist interiors to life through safari tours, art itineraries, as well as fitness, surf, and cooking classes.Ditch the Plane for the Train2025 might as well be called the year of the train. Why? Not only is the British Railway celebrating its 200th anniversary, but a whole new range of retro-inspired luxury trains, inspired by the legendary 1883 Orient Express and bringing its Art Deco design style into the contemporary, are coming to multiple locations across the globe, making traveling as timeless and captivating as it has ever been.Among such anticipated openings are those of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, an all-Italian designed train created to connect Rome to destinations like Venice and Sicily, with décor reviving the creative genius of 1960s to 1970s icons Gio Ponti, Nanda Vigo, and Gae Aulenti signed by Dimorestudio; the Britannic Explorer, the latest newcomer to Belmond's dazzling railway portfolio, and England and Wales' first luxury sleeper train; SJ Norge's Norient Express, promising a six-day adventure through some of Norway's most scenic landscapes; the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, which will take you to the discovery of one of the world's most ancient trading network and the marvels sited along it; and the American Dreamstar Lines, a nightly luxury train operating between Los Angeles and San Francisco, with interiors by Designworks.From the vibrant Seven Stars in Kyushu, an emblem of Japan's time-traveling craftsmanship, to the Wes Anderson-esque Maharajas' Express, offering exclusive journeys across North-West and Central India, and South Africa's Rovos Rail, guiding you across the Rainbow Nation through Namibia and Tanzania, the world has far more trains today than you would expect it to have — and they are taking us back to the future! For Journeyscape's Rebecca Harley, this trend reflects "a growing urge for sustainable exploration and meaningful experiences." In Canada, "travelers seek to reduce their carbon footprint while taking in the country's breathtaking landscapes," she says, adding that locations like the Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec have all become more easily accessible through iconic routes such as Via Rail. "Trains offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and scenic immersion, making an especially appealing option for solo travelers who prioritize safety and ease."From hiking, climbing, and boating, to yoga and horseback riding, everything is possible at AmangiriGoing SoloHarley's mention of solo travelers isn't in any way coincidental. According to Intrepid Travel CCO Leigh Barnes, "the desire to travel is so strong that most young adults may not be waiting for friends, family, or anyone else to book their trip, and are willing to go solo." A recent study conducted by the company showed that "nearly four in five US adults say they have taken or would be interested in taking a solo trip, with nearly nine in ten adults aged 18-35 saying the same," he adds. For Charnell Ward, PR Specialist at Pearl Lemon Adventures, solo travelers are among the greatest protagonists of the 2025 travel trends: "they are increasingly seeking experiences that balance independence with a sense of community, such as joining wellness retreats or adventure tours where connections form naturally," she says.Because of their wide-ranging on-site activities and just as impressive modern interior design, we think that destinations like Paradero Todos Santos, rising at the very tip of the Baja California Sur state, the Ashar Valley's Our Habitas AlUla resort and Caravan accommodations, and the Utah-based Amangiri "adrenaline-fueled adventure and peaceful desert retreats" would make the ultimate solution for tasteful solo travelers with insatiable wanderlust.5. When, Not WhereImage 1 of 8The sophisticated mountain feel of the cōmodo, a design gem in the Austrian Alps(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)... and its snowy views(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)The modern rustic feel of Casa Cook North Coast, an Egyptian resort with style to spare(Image credit: Casa Cook North Coast. Design: Vision Alphabet and Shehab A. Mazhar Architects)The aurora borealis, as experienced from Welcome Beyond's Aurora Cabin in Laupstad, Norway(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)The modernist exterior of Boca de Agua, a stunning, tropical Mexican retreat(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)The view from one of the suites of the Casa Cook El Gouna, sited on the Red Sea(Image credit: Casa Cook El Gouna. Design: Common Architecture)Boca de Agua's iconic interiors(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)Perhaps the biggest 2025 travel trend of them all, 'When, Not Where' sees the world's wanderers plan their much-awaited getaways as a way out of extreme temperatures and the frenzy of everyday life. Rather than traveling at the peak of summer, or winter, more people seem to be interested in "uncovering a different side to a destination by exploring outside of conventional times," Ayaka Hasegawa, PR Manager at Luxury Tour Operator Black Tomato, tells me.Joining 'cool-' and 'warmcations' — or the journeys we take to foreign destinations in an attempt to avoid the heat and frost in our countries — respectively, "noctourism has emerged as a micro trend of its own", with people wandering around their chosen holiday locations at night "to escape daytime crowds, witness once-in-a-lifetime natural phenomena, and enjoy the place at a more relaxed pace," adds the expert. Meanwhile, the growing popularity of the off- and shoulder seasons, a symptom of the shift towards more sustainable ways of conceiving travel, allows travelers to interact with the beauty of coveted destinations like New Zealand and Australia — previously overlooked during the cooler months — in completely new ways.If places like Egypt's Common Architecture-designed Casa Cook El Gouna and the modernist paradise of Balacar's Boca de Agua grant you a balmy respite from winter's below-zero temperatures, Welcome Beyond's Scandinavian design-inspired properties such as The Cliff in Quebec and Laupstad's Aurora Cabin are your portal into nature's wonders and interior (as well as exterior) coolness.2025 has only just begun, but we know travel will be a huge part of it. Whether pointing you in the direction of the best places to visit this year and the most design-worthy accommodations available there, or convincing you to take up solo travel for the very first time, we hope this Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report has given you a reason to be on the move — whether literally or metaphorically.With climate change manifesting dramatically as we write, this year's travel predictions urge us to focus on the when, how, and why of tourism far more than on the where alone. Let this guide you in planning journeys that can nurture you and your close ones as much as they contribute sensibly to the environment around you. And if you are stuck for inspiration, head to our hotel design pages, your online directory to stylish escapism. Source link

[iamownerofme]

Every year, as the darkness of the coldest months sinks in, the only thing that keeps me going is knowing that, sooner or later, I will take a break from my work routine, pack my bags, and travel somewhere I have likely never been before. Of course, I am not the only one to feel this way. The fact that most vacation bookings are made between the end of the holiday season and January is a clear indication of how our wanderlust peaks in winter, prompting us to search for the latest travel trends and the best destinations to tick off our bucket list as we wait impatiently to visit them first-hand.But travel trends, or the forecasting of the places, interests, and modalities that will define people's journeys in the year ahead, don't exclusively concern "travel". Quite the opposite, they are a reflection of society as a whole; a reaction to the myriad of phenomena that — however consciously — shape the way we live right now, from the rise of social media and AI, to the hyper-productivity demanded by contemporary workplaces, the unfolding of climate change, and pop culture. What does that mean? It means that, whether or not we are aware of it, the locations at the center of our travel itineraries, how we choose to reach them, and the reasons and purposes behind our vacations are not casual, but embody the state of our lives today. These travel trends reveal what drives and inspires us, what we fear we lack, and are therefore trying to get more of, and what we would like to become in the future.Merging exclusive insights from multiple industry experts, this Livingetc report doesn't bring mere advice on where to go in 2025: it also captures the nuances of our urge to explore, and outlines how we can continue to do so without harming the nature and the communities around us — all while putting extraordinary design at the forefront.At Amangiri, a 5-star luxury resort in Utah's dramatic Canyon Point, relaxation and adventure collide(Image credit: Amangiri. Design: Marwan Al-Sayed, Wendell Burnette, and Rick Joy)What Are the Biggest Travel Trends for 2025?While travel trends may differ from nation to nation, our look forward at the moods, hobbies, and countries that will serve as the real protagonists of 2025 gives a polarized portrait of the world at a glance. If, on the one hand, more and more wanderers seem to be seeking holidays that can grant them the peace of mind they miss in their everyday lives by chasing after wellness retreats, slow living destinations, and quieter getaways than the usual city breaks, for others, travel is all about adrenaline. Electrifying solo — or train-hopping — adventures and wilderness-absorbed accommodations that evoke thrill, awe, or even danger, are as appealing to the world's travel community as their calm-inducing counterparts.Despite their diverging end goals, both are brought together by the same rule: where we travel in 2025 is not that important; what matters is when, how, and why we do it. Shoulder seasons, or the periods between a region's peak season and offseason, are gaining momentum, with travelers opting for less canonical moments of the year to be on the move, or planning their escapes to coincide with the coldest — or hottest — months. This helps mitigate the environmental and social impact of over-tourism, also granting vacationers a more enjoyable stay. As for the how, 2025 travel trends are synonymous with restfulness, connection, and personalization: think curated itineraries that unearth hidden trails, blending art, culture, food, community, and sport into a multifaceted experience to be savored on your own or with your loved ones.Without further ado: these are 2025's biggest travel trends.1. CalmcationsImage 1 of 4The tranquil atmosphere at Hume, a wellness-focused club in Venice Beach, California(Image credit: Yoshihiro Makino and Hume. Design: Wisan Studio and Bricault Design)The sun-lit interiors of Californian winery Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)An historical building has been turned into a design lover's dream at Casa Salento, a calm retreat in southern Italy's Puglia region(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)Some of the crafty workshop held on site at Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)If 2025 travel trends could be summed up in a sentence, it would be: we need a break. And no, it is not the winter blues speaking, it is the global community as a whole. Two weeks into the year, "we're seeing a rise in clients booking 'quiet travel', with travelers seeking to escape the noise of everyday life — whether that's noise from content, work, other people, or even your own thoughts," Carolyn Weppler, Senior Vice President at Goway tells me.The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.Directing visitors towards more rural, secluded locations instead of bustling metropolises, these "calmcations" are characterized by a stronger immersion in nature and a focus on restoring our physical, mental, and emotional balance. Prioritizing our primal needs over visits to "must-see attractions", quiet travel invites us to put ourselves first — even, and especially, on vacation.Wellness RetreatsThis isn't a travel trend that is bound to fizzle as people settle into the year, but the opposite. In the coming weeks, "the demand for wellness-focused retreats is only set to rise as wanderers seek restorative experiences that prioritize their physical and mental well-being," says Rebecca Harley, Marketing Manager at Journeyscape. "Coastal destinations, mountain resorts, and lakeside lodges across North America are tailoring their offerings to include mindfulness workshops, yoga retreats, and nature-based therapies." Providing an antidote to the fast-paced digital world, these experiences emphasize "the importance of rejuvenation, making them particularly attractive to both solo adventurers and groups seeking meaningful connection."The bathed-in-sunlight gardens of Nice's Hôtel du Couvent, a leading example of contemporary agrotourism(Image credit: Giulio Ghirardi. Courtesy of Hôtel du Couvent. Design: Tom Stuart-Smith Ltd and Scape Design)Agrotourism and Natural Wonders GetawaysPlaces like Fairfield's Caymus-Suisun, a sun-baked Californian winery spectacularly crafted by local design studio The Bureau, offer an alternative way of embracing the 'calmcation' concept. Open for food and wine tastings, here you can "pick fruit in our orchards, and walk the vineyards and vegetable garden," explain Founders Chuck, Charlie, and Jenny Wagner, whose project falls under the newly surfacing category of 'agrotourism'.In recent years, more hotels and resorts have started integrating visits to kitchen gardens and connected farms in their offering, showcasing the quality of their produce and facilitating enriching exchanges between staff and visitors. At Poggi del Sasso's Castello di Vicarello, for example, "you'll enjoy farm-to-table dining with organic ingredients sourced directly from the estate's gardens and olive groves," East End Taste founder Vanessa Gordon tells me, recalling her sojourn at the property. "With over 50 varieties of vegetables and 30 aromatic herbs, their chefs craft authentic Tuscan dishes that highlight the freshest local flavors, and the castle even has their own wine that they bottle and sell."Another local resort, Rosewood's Castiglion del Bosco, "utilizes a similar approach on a grander scale," she says. "They grow much of their own herbs in a garden that guests can walk around, besides having onsite cooking classes and truffle hunting classes, and a winery near the premises." Particularly popular in American states like Arizona and California, and Italy's evergreen Trentino, Tuscany, and Umbria, 'agrotourism' is just another form of quiet travel. This also counts for "natural wonders getaways," explains Weppler. "Think of excursions to places like Kenya's Maasai Mara and Serengeti, Australia's Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, Mount Fuji, the Alaska Glaciers, and the Swiss Alps."2. Slow TravelImage 1 of 6An aerial view of Uzbekistan's mountain ranges, one of the unexpected destinations predicted to be big this year(Image credit: Getty Images)The color-block hotel lobby of Busan's Coolest Hotel lives up to the stay's name(Image credit: Studio SIM. Courtesy of The Coolest Hotel. Design: Jongkim Design Studio and Design Madonna)Uzbekistan's rich cultural heritage and history is tangible in its colorfully intricate architecture(Image credit: Getty Images)The biggest room at The Bull Charlbury makes the perfect romantic retreat for winter wanderers(Image credit: The Bull Charlbury. Design: Phil Winser and James Gummer)The countryside of Vietnam, another nation believed to be on the traveling community's radar in 2025(Image credit: Getty Images)The Daniel Arsham-designed Kohler cabin in Wisconsin is the go-to destination for an arty staycation(Image credit: Kohler Co. Design: Daniel Arsham)While quite travel values repose and regeneration through activities that can favor a better quality of life, slow travel extends that invigorating effect to the places we visit, too. Contrary to the past, "2025 is seeing a real move towards less rushed vacations; stays that can foster deeper interactions with a place than whistle-stop tours to tick off bucket-list sights," Harley explains. As one of the biggest travel trends of 2025, slow travel wants us to reassess what it actually means to travel, making us aware of the impact of our choices.Since the pandemic, "people seem to be much more thoughtful about how they travel," Brenda Beltrán, Travel Writer and Content Manager at Holafly, tells me. They don't just look for experiences "that feel personal and that matter to them," she adds, "but they are also more inclined to engage with local cultures, make sustainable choices, and spend more time in one place."Staycations'Staycations', or vacations spent in our home country rather than abroad, have first come to the fore amid the post-COVID-19 limbo, when people didn't brave venturing outside of national borders for fear of unexpected negative repercussions. Nearly five years on since the outbreak, and with overseas travel now back in full force, this trend hasn't got any less prominent. Instead, it has just become one of the best, most popular, and most sustainable, ways to travel.According to recent research from Away Resorts, 52% of UK travelers will spend their time off somewhere in the country this year, while in the US, domestic travel is "projected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, driven by a renewed interest in local experiences". Staycation options are as varied as ever, and not always requiring you to jump on a plane in order to reach them, rather eco-conscious, too.Still wondering where to go in 2025? You could opt for an under-the-radar lodge, like Livingetc's Style Editor Julia Demer did when she spent a weekend at the surreally beautiful Daniel Arsham's Kohler cabin, or, drawing on insights from Campspot's (Re)Creation Vacation 2025 Trend Outlook, drive to the 'nostalgic hotspots' expected to enjoy a renaissance as some of this year's most popular outdoor destinations, including West Yellowstone, Traverse City, Miami, Bar Harbor, and Grand Canyon. You could check if the minimalist chic guesthouses of Danish furniture and homeware brand Vipp have landed anywhere near you, making them your refuge for a day or two. Alternatively, if you are in Britain, you might indulge in the design-forward resurgence of historical pubs with rooms — as I did during a recent stay at the modern rustic décor idyll that is The Bull Charlbury.An underrated cultural and natural wonder, Cambodia is set to be one of this year's most sought-after destinations(Image credit: Getty Images)Off-the-Beaten-PathAlthough it might sound counterintuitive, going for unconventional and less traveled destinations — however remote those might be — is yet another side of the slow travel movement. Making a conscious effort not to flock in mass to the ever-crowded Rome, Paris, Barcelona, and New York, instead booking longer holidays in 'off-the-beaten-path' regions, might well be the way forward, or at least that is what experts suggest in regards to travel 2025 trend predictions. So what are some of the best places to visit this year if you want to give slow travel a go? Get ready to be spoilt for choice."A less crowded alternative to Dubrovnik in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina is being heralded as the rising star of The Balkans for 2025," says Wild Frontiers' Clare Tobin, who mentions its awe-inspiring nature, burgeoning wine industry, and scenic cycle routes as some of its greatest highlights. But the country isn't the only Eastern European location on the rise. In Latvia, "unspoiled beaches, ancient castles and Europe's widest waterfall" are all one booking away, Travelzoo's Communications Director Cat Jordan explains, while Gulet Cruise Montenegro's Alexandra Iordan looks at "Montenegro's untouched nature, rich history, and vibrant culture" as the secrets to a perfect getaway.Meanwhile, underrated destinations in Central and East Asia are gaining momentum, too. For Explore Worldwide's Michael Edwards, "South Korea is the place to visit" this year. "A relatively unexplored slice of Asia, the country seamlessly juxtaposes over 5,000 years of culture and history with all things hyper-modern," he explains. Check the retro-futuristic lobby and rooms of Busan's color-block Coolest Hotel and you will know Edwards' prediction is spot on.Still, there are more Asian explorations to try out this year. According to James Adkin, Product Manager at Explore Worldwide, "there's a huge amount of interest in the Silk Road at the moment, both culturally and historically," with bookings to Uzbekistan rising up 52% compared to last year. Countries like Cambodia, with its "untouched beaches and breathtaking scenery", and abundant wildlife, "tick several travel boxes," explains Jordan, while Holiday Extras' has Vietnam's Côn Đảo archipelago down as the best place to visit between November and April 2025.3. Passion — and Event — TourismImage 1 of 4Osaka, the host of the 2025 EXPO, is known for its vibrant nightlife and culinary scene, as well as for its immersive natural parks(Image credit: Getty Images)Hotel Peter and Paul is one of New Orleans' coolest design hotels, making it the perfect stay for travelers wanting to enjoy the 2025 Super Bowl LIX in style(Image credit: Hotel Peter and Paul. Design: StudioWTA, ASH NYC, and Nathalie Jordi)Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim's "The Form" (2024), one of the colossal artworks presented as part of Frieze Sculpture, which returns to London 15-19 October 2025 alongside Frieze and Frieze Masters(Image credit: Linda Nylind. Courtesy of Linda Nylind and Frieze)The minimalist, chic interiors of Hotel Volkshaus Basel, a must-know destination for creatives looking to attend the Basel 2025 Eurovision (13-17 May) or Art Basel 2025 (19-22 June)(Image credit: Hotel Volkshaus Basel. Design: Herzog & de Meuron)Last year, record-smashing pop singer Taylor Swift's North American Eras Tour had a $2 billion impact on the US economy, with tour locations seeing direct correlation between concert dates and spikes in hotel bookings (Check out Livingetc's interiors-led deep dive into Taylor Swift property to catch a glimpse of her estate empire). In Philadelphia, for example, May was the strongest hotel revenue month, coinciding with the music artist's presence in town. Across Europe, hotel prices in concert cities increased by an average of 44%, while in Singapore alone, inbound flights, accommodation bookings, and tours to local attractions grew by 186%, 462%, and 2,373% during the local leg of the Eras Tour, Trip.com reported.For LaDell Carter, Lead Luxury Lifestyle Travel Designer and Founder of Royal Expression Travels, passion-led tourism is not going anywhere in 2025. "Travel has always been an emotional purchase, but now more than ever, it's an act of self-prioritization and purpose," she tells me. Today, "it is not just about where people go, but why they are going and how their unique needs are met along the way." Rebecca Recommends's Rebecca Slater couldn't agree more. "This year we expect to see travel plans centered around major events, and not just concerts," the Founder explains. "Whether it's witnessing the Sydney New Year's Eve Fireworks, catching the Super Bowl LIX action in New Orleans, or checking off a bucket list trip at the Monaco Grand Prix, there are numerous significant events around the world that are already attracting attention."Already noted in our books are the Frieze fairs (20-23 February, Los Angeles. 7-11 May, New York. 15-19 October, London); the Expo 2025 (13 April-13 October 2025), with Osaka, Japan's second-largest city, playing as host; the Eurovision Song Contest (13-17 May 2025), which lands in Basel, Switzerland's creative capital, in late spring, a month ahead of the Art Basel exhibition (19-22 June 2025); Milan Design Week (7-13 April 2025), including Salone del Mobile; and the long-anticipated reunion tour of Oasis, coming to the UK 4 July-17 August 2025.When it comes to passion tourism, which doesn't merely include trips related to specific events, but encompasses a thorough (and recently, even AI-assisted) personalization of all aspects of the journey, the secret "lies in the details," Carter explains. This 2025 travel trend is all about "delving into the intricacies of each traveler's passions and preferences," she adds. "Take Canyon Ranch in Arizona, for example. When I visited with colleagues, it didn't feel like a group trip — it was all about my personal path. From curated workout routines to tailored wellness consultations, every moment was designed around me. Their ambassador had planned everything in advance, and by the time I arrived, it felt like they had known me for years." That, for her, is "the magic of passion-led travel — it transforms a destination into a deeply personal journey."4. Adventure TravelImage 1 of 8Luxury group Belmond is at the forefront of the train renaissance, and the images of its rail solutions speak for themselves(Image credit: Belmond)The interiors are a one-way-ticket to an Agatha Christie's mystery(Image credit: Belmond)The brutalist exterior of Paradero Todos Santos, an experiential luxury hotel nestled in the Mexican desert(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)Our Habitas AlUla, a sustainable desert resort housed within the orangey dunes of the Ashar Valley, Saudi Arabia(Image credit: Our Habitas AlUla. Design: Habitas)The breathtaking views surrounding Paradero Todos Santos(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)The ferrata trail near Amangiri, a spectacular luxury resort in Canyon Point, Utah(Image credit: Amangiri)Another detail from a Belmond train, captured as it speeds by(Image credit: Belmond)... and its atmospheric golden hour(Image credit: Belmond)If there's a leitmotif that permeates all the travel 2025 trends, it is a desire for experiences that feel as challenging and personal as they are unforgettable. It is the rise of the "adventure travel boom", which, as Much Better Adventures CMO and Co-Founder Sam Bruce puts it, "is fueled by those craving immersive experiences and an escape from the humdrum of daily life." For the travel expert, this trend doesn't just offer physical, mental, and social benefits, but when done right, "it boosts local economies far more sustainably than traditional tourism," he adds.Traditionally, adventure travel comprises anything from "going kayaking and wildlife spotting" to "hiking in less-visited regions of Europe". This Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report gives it the design treatment: think lavishly furnished, flashing trains straight out of an Agatha Christie thriller, luxury glamping resorts and cabins immersed in the glowing Arabian desert, and opencast Mexican resorts bringing brutalist interiors to life through safari tours, art itineraries, as well as fitness, surf, and cooking classes.Ditch the Plane for the Train2025 might as well be called the year of the train. Why? Not only is the British Railway celebrating its 200th anniversary, but a whole new range of retro-inspired luxury trains, inspired by the legendary 1883 Orient Express and bringing its Art Deco design style into the contemporary, are coming to multiple locations across the globe, making traveling as timeless and captivating as it has ever been.Among such anticipated openings are those of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, an all-Italian designed train created to connect Rome to destinations like Venice and Sicily, with décor reviving the creative genius of 1960s to 1970s icons Gio Ponti, Nanda Vigo, and Gae Aulenti signed by Dimorestudio; the Britannic Explorer, the latest newcomer to Belmond's dazzling railway portfolio, and England and Wales' first luxury sleeper train; SJ Norge's Norient Express, promising a six-day adventure through some of Norway's most scenic landscapes; the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, which will take you to the discovery of one of the world's most ancient trading network and the marvels sited along it; and the American Dreamstar Lines, a nightly luxury train operating between Los Angeles and San Francisco, with interiors by Designworks.From the vibrant Seven Stars in Kyushu, an emblem of Japan's time-traveling craftsmanship, to the Wes Anderson-esque Maharajas' Express, offering exclusive journeys across North-West and Central India, and South Africa's Rovos Rail, guiding you across the Rainbow Nation through Namibia and Tanzania, the world has far more trains today than you would expect it to have — and they are taking us back to the future! For Journeyscape's Rebecca Harley, this trend reflects "a growing urge for sustainable exploration and meaningful experiences." In Canada, "travelers seek to reduce their carbon footprint while taking in the country's breathtaking landscapes," she says, adding that locations like the Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec have all become more easily accessible through iconic routes such as Via Rail. "Trains offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and scenic immersion, making an especially appealing option for solo travelers who prioritize safety and ease."From hiking, climbing, and boating, to yoga and horseback riding, everything is possible at AmangiriGoing SoloHarley's mention of solo travelers isn't in any way coincidental. According to Intrepid Travel CCO Leigh Barnes, "the desire to travel is so strong that most young adults may not be waiting for friends, family, or anyone else to book their trip, and are willing to go solo." A recent study conducted by the company showed that "nearly four in five US adults say they have taken or would be interested in taking a solo trip, with nearly nine in ten adults aged 18-35 saying the same," he adds. For Charnell Ward, PR Specialist at Pearl Lemon Adventures, solo travelers are among the greatest protagonists of the 2025 travel trends: "they are increasingly seeking experiences that balance independence with a sense of community, such as joining wellness retreats or adventure tours where connections form naturally," she says.Because of their wide-ranging on-site activities and just as impressive modern interior design, we think that destinations like Paradero Todos Santos, rising at the very tip of the Baja California Sur state, the Ashar Valley's Our Habitas AlUla resort and Caravan accommodations, and the Utah-based Amangiri "adrenaline-fueled adventure and peaceful desert retreats" would make the ultimate solution for tasteful solo travelers with insatiable wanderlust.5. When, Not WhereImage 1 of 8The sophisticated mountain feel of the cōmodo, a design gem in the Austrian Alps(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)... and its snowy views(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)The modern rustic feel of Casa Cook North Coast, an Egyptian resort with style to spare(Image credit: Casa Cook North Coast. Design: Vision Alphabet and Shehab A. Mazhar Architects)The aurora borealis, as experienced from Welcome Beyond's Aurora Cabin in Laupstad, Norway(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)The modernist exterior of Boca de Agua, a stunning, tropical Mexican retreat(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)The view from one of the suites of the Casa Cook El Gouna, sited on the Red Sea(Image credit: Casa Cook El Gouna. Design: Common Architecture)Boca de Agua's iconic interiors(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)Perhaps the biggest 2025 travel trend of them all, 'When, Not Where' sees the world's wanderers plan their much-awaited getaways as a way out of extreme temperatures and the frenzy of everyday life. Rather than traveling at the peak of summer, or winter, more people seem to be interested in "uncovering a different side to a destination by exploring outside of conventional times," Ayaka Hasegawa, PR Manager at Luxury Tour Operator Black Tomato, tells me.Joining 'cool-' and 'warmcations' — or the journeys we take to foreign destinations in an attempt to avoid the heat and frost in our countries — respectively, "noctourism has emerged as a micro trend of its own", with people wandering around their chosen holiday locations at night "to escape daytime crowds, witness once-in-a-lifetime natural phenomena, and enjoy the place at a more relaxed pace," adds the expert. Meanwhile, the growing popularity of the off- and shoulder seasons, a symptom of the shift towards more sustainable ways of conceiving travel, allows travelers to interact with the beauty of coveted destinations like New Zealand and Australia — previously overlooked during the cooler months — in completely new ways.If places like Egypt's Common Architecture-designed Casa Cook El Gouna and the modernist paradise of Balacar's Boca de Agua grant you a balmy respite from winter's below-zero temperatures, Welcome Beyond's Scandinavian design-inspired properties such as The Cliff in Quebec and Laupstad's Aurora Cabin are your portal into nature's wonders and interior (as well as exterior) coolness.2025 has only just begun, but we know travel will be a huge part of it. Whether pointing you in the direction of the best places to visit this year and the most design-worthy accommodations available there, or convincing you to take up solo travel for the very first time, we hope this Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report has given you a reason to be on the move — whether literally or metaphorically.With climate change manifesting dramatically as we write, this year's travel predictions urge us to focus on the when, how, and why of tourism far more than on the where alone. Let this guide you in planning journeys that can nurture you and your close ones as much as they contribute sensibly to the environment around you. And if you are stuck for inspiration, head to our hotel design pages, your online directory to stylish escapism. Source link

[stilltravels]

Seafront Sicily

Seafront Sicily

Unbeatable 5-star beach trip to Italy

Discover the luxurious charm of Sciacca, Sicily, as you enjoy a lavish beach getaway at a 5-star resort. Unwind amidst the idyllic shores, pamper yourself at the resort's exquisite spa, and savor the exquisite flavors of Italian cuisine. With the convenience of a complimentary rental car, you can leisurely explore the picturesque Sicilian countryside.

Dates - Oct 1 - 6, 2024

Room - Superior Sea View

Nights - 5

What's Included

Round-trip airfare to Palermo (PMO)

Automatic rental car for the duration of the trip

5 nights in Sciacca, Sicily in a superior sea view room

Breakfast Daily

Unique Explorations

Lounge on the resort's beautiful beach and sparkling pools.

Experience resort-offered activities, like visiting Mount Etna.

Use your rental car to visit nearby beaches and medieval towns.

Indulge in a Sicilian massage and other treatments at the resort's spa.

Feast on exquisite Italian cuisine at the resort's delicious restaurants.

Total Package Price - $ 2,161.00 (per person)

Call or text 6784691977 or email yourstilltravels@gmail.com

www.stilltravelsllc.com

**Prices and availability are subject to change

[shelyold]

Every year, as the darkness of the coldest months sinks in, the only thing that keeps me going is knowing that, sooner or later, I will take a break from my work routine, pack my bags, and travel somewhere I have likely never been before. Of course, I am not the only one to feel this way. The fact that most vacation bookings are made between the end of the holiday season and January is a clear indication of how our wanderlust peaks in winter, prompting us to search for the latest travel trends and the best destinations to tick off our bucket list as we wait impatiently to visit them first-hand.But travel trends, or the forecasting of the places, interests, and modalities that will define people's journeys in the year ahead, don't exclusively concern "travel". Quite the opposite, they are a reflection of society as a whole; a reaction to the myriad of phenomena that — however consciously — shape the way we live right now, from the rise of social media and AI, to the hyper-productivity demanded by contemporary workplaces, the unfolding of climate change, and pop culture. What does that mean? It means that, whether or not we are aware of it, the locations at the center of our travel itineraries, how we choose to reach them, and the reasons and purposes behind our vacations are not casual, but embody the state of our lives today. These travel trends reveal what drives and inspires us, what we fear we lack, and are therefore trying to get more of, and what we would like to become in the future.Merging exclusive insights from multiple industry experts, this Livingetc report doesn't bring mere advice on where to go in 2025: it also captures the nuances of our urge to explore, and outlines how we can continue to do so without harming the nature and the communities around us — all while putting extraordinary design at the forefront.At Amangiri, a 5-star luxury resort in Utah's dramatic Canyon Point, relaxation and adventure collide(Image credit: Amangiri. Design: Marwan Al-Sayed, Wendell Burnette, and Rick Joy)What Are the Biggest Travel Trends for 2025?While travel trends may differ from nation to nation, our look forward at the moods, hobbies, and countries that will serve as the real protagonists of 2025 gives a polarized portrait of the world at a glance. If, on the one hand, more and more wanderers seem to be seeking holidays that can grant them the peace of mind they miss in their everyday lives by chasing after wellness retreats, slow living destinations, and quieter getaways than the usual city breaks, for others, travel is all about adrenaline. Electrifying solo — or train-hopping — adventures and wilderness-absorbed accommodations that evoke thrill, awe, or even danger, are as appealing to the world's travel community as their calm-inducing counterparts.Despite their diverging end goals, both are brought together by the same rule: where we travel in 2025 is not that important; what matters is when, how, and why we do it. Shoulder seasons, or the periods between a region's peak season and offseason, are gaining momentum, with travelers opting for less canonical moments of the year to be on the move, or planning their escapes to coincide with the coldest — or hottest — months. This helps mitigate the environmental and social impact of over-tourism, also granting vacationers a more enjoyable stay. As for the how, 2025 travel trends are synonymous with restfulness, connection, and personalization: think curated itineraries that unearth hidden trails, blending art, culture, food, community, and sport into a multifaceted experience to be savored on your own or with your loved ones.Without further ado: these are 2025's biggest travel trends.1. CalmcationsImage 1 of 4The tranquil atmosphere at Hume, a wellness-focused club in Venice Beach, California(Image credit: Yoshihiro Makino and Hume. Design: Wisan Studio and Bricault Design)The sun-lit interiors of Californian winery Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)An historical building has been turned into a design lover's dream at Casa Salento, a calm retreat in southern Italy's Puglia region(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)Some of the crafty workshop held on site at Caymus-Suisun(Image credit: Caymus-Suisun. Design: The Bureau)If 2025 travel trends could be summed up in a sentence, it would be: we need a break. And no, it is not the winter blues speaking, it is the global community as a whole. Two weeks into the year, "we're seeing a rise in clients booking 'quiet travel', with travelers seeking to escape the noise of everyday life — whether that's noise from content, work, other people, or even your own thoughts," Carolyn Weppler, Senior Vice President at Goway tells me.The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.Directing visitors towards more rural, secluded locations instead of bustling metropolises, these "calmcations" are characterized by a stronger immersion in nature and a focus on restoring our physical, mental, and emotional balance. Prioritizing our primal needs over visits to "must-see attractions", quiet travel invites us to put ourselves first — even, and especially, on vacation.Wellness RetreatsThis isn't a travel trend that is bound to fizzle as people settle into the year, but the opposite. In the coming weeks, "the demand for wellness-focused retreats is only set to rise as wanderers seek restorative experiences that prioritize their physical and mental well-being," says Rebecca Harley, Marketing Manager at Journeyscape. "Coastal destinations, mountain resorts, and lakeside lodges across North America are tailoring their offerings to include mindfulness workshops, yoga retreats, and nature-based therapies." Providing an antidote to the fast-paced digital world, these experiences emphasize "the importance of rejuvenation, making them particularly attractive to both solo adventurers and groups seeking meaningful connection."The bathed-in-sunlight gardens of Nice's Hôtel du Couvent, a leading example of contemporary agrotourism(Image credit: Giulio Ghirardi. Courtesy of Hôtel du Couvent. Design: Tom Stuart-Smith Ltd and Scape Design)Agrotourism and Natural Wonders GetawaysPlaces like Fairfield's Caymus-Suisun, a sun-baked Californian winery spectacularly crafted by local design studio The Bureau, offer an alternative way of embracing the 'calmcation' concept. Open for food and wine tastings, here you can "pick fruit in our orchards, and walk the vineyards and vegetable garden," explain Founders Chuck, Charlie, and Jenny Wagner, whose project falls under the newly surfacing category of 'agrotourism'.In recent years, more hotels and resorts have started integrating visits to kitchen gardens and connected farms in their offering, showcasing the quality of their produce and facilitating enriching exchanges between staff and visitors. At Poggi del Sasso's Castello di Vicarello, for example, "you'll enjoy farm-to-table dining with organic ingredients sourced directly from the estate's gardens and olive groves," East End Taste founder Vanessa Gordon tells me, recalling her sojourn at the property. "With over 50 varieties of vegetables and 30 aromatic herbs, their chefs craft authentic Tuscan dishes that highlight the freshest local flavors, and the castle even has their own wine that they bottle and sell."Another local resort, Rosewood's Castiglion del Bosco, "utilizes a similar approach on a grander scale," she says. "They grow much of their own herbs in a garden that guests can walk around, besides having onsite cooking classes and truffle hunting classes, and a winery near the premises." Particularly popular in American states like Arizona and California, and Italy's evergreen Trentino, Tuscany, and Umbria, 'agrotourism' is just another form of quiet travel. This also counts for "natural wonders getaways," explains Weppler. "Think of excursions to places like Kenya's Maasai Mara and Serengeti, Australia's Great Barrier Reef and Uluru, Mount Fuji, the Alaska Glaciers, and the Swiss Alps."2. Slow TravelImage 1 of 6An aerial view of Uzbekistan's mountain ranges, one of the unexpected destinations predicted to be big this year(Image credit: Getty Images)The color-block hotel lobby of Busan's Coolest Hotel lives up to the stay's name(Image credit: Studio SIM. Courtesy of The Coolest Hotel. Design: Jongkim Design Studio and Design Madonna)Uzbekistan's rich cultural heritage and history is tangible in its colorfully intricate architecture(Image credit: Getty Images)The biggest room at The Bull Charlbury makes the perfect romantic retreat for winter wanderers(Image credit: The Bull Charlbury. Design: Phil Winser and James Gummer)The countryside of Vietnam, another nation believed to be on the traveling community's radar in 2025(Image credit: Getty Images)The Daniel Arsham-designed Kohler cabin in Wisconsin is the go-to destination for an arty staycation(Image credit: Kohler Co. Design: Daniel Arsham)While quite travel values repose and regeneration through activities that can favor a better quality of life, slow travel extends that invigorating effect to the places we visit, too. Contrary to the past, "2025 is seeing a real move towards less rushed vacations; stays that can foster deeper interactions with a place than whistle-stop tours to tick off bucket-list sights," Harley explains. As one of the biggest travel trends of 2025, slow travel wants us to reassess what it actually means to travel, making us aware of the impact of our choices.Since the pandemic, "people seem to be much more thoughtful about how they travel," Brenda Beltrán, Travel Writer and Content Manager at Holafly, tells me. They don't just look for experiences "that feel personal and that matter to them," she adds, "but they are also more inclined to engage with local cultures, make sustainable choices, and spend more time in one place."Staycations'Staycations', or vacations spent in our home country rather than abroad, have first come to the fore amid the post-COVID-19 limbo, when people didn't brave venturing outside of national borders for fear of unexpected negative repercussions. Nearly five years on since the outbreak, and with overseas travel now back in full force, this trend hasn't got any less prominent. Instead, it has just become one of the best, most popular, and most sustainable, ways to travel.According to recent research from Away Resorts, 52% of UK travelers will spend their time off somewhere in the country this year, while in the US, domestic travel is "projected to exceed pre-pandemic levels, driven by a renewed interest in local experiences". Staycation options are as varied as ever, and not always requiring you to jump on a plane in order to reach them, rather eco-conscious, too.Still wondering where to go in 2025? You could opt for an under-the-radar lodge, like Livingetc's Style Editor Julia Demer did when she spent a weekend at the surreally beautiful Daniel Arsham's Kohler cabin, or, drawing on insights from Campspot's (Re)Creation Vacation 2025 Trend Outlook, drive to the 'nostalgic hotspots' expected to enjoy a renaissance as some of this year's most popular outdoor destinations, including West Yellowstone, Traverse City, Miami, Bar Harbor, and Grand Canyon. You could check if the minimalist chic guesthouses of Danish furniture and homeware brand Vipp have landed anywhere near you, making them your refuge for a day or two. Alternatively, if you are in Britain, you might indulge in the design-forward resurgence of historical pubs with rooms — as I did during a recent stay at the modern rustic décor idyll that is The Bull Charlbury.An underrated cultural and natural wonder, Cambodia is set to be one of this year's most sought-after destinations(Image credit: Getty Images)Off-the-Beaten-PathAlthough it might sound counterintuitive, going for unconventional and less traveled destinations — however remote those might be — is yet another side of the slow travel movement. Making a conscious effort not to flock in mass to the ever-crowded Rome, Paris, Barcelona, and New York, instead booking longer holidays in 'off-the-beaten-path' regions, might well be the way forward, or at least that is what experts suggest in regards to travel 2025 trend predictions. So what are some of the best places to visit this year if you want to give slow travel a go? Get ready to be spoilt for choice."A less crowded alternative to Dubrovnik in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina is being heralded as the rising star of The Balkans for 2025," says Wild Frontiers' Clare Tobin, who mentions its awe-inspiring nature, burgeoning wine industry, and scenic cycle routes as some of its greatest highlights. But the country isn't the only Eastern European location on the rise. In Latvia, "unspoiled beaches, ancient castles and Europe's widest waterfall" are all one booking away, Travelzoo's Communications Director Cat Jordan explains, while Gulet Cruise Montenegro's Alexandra Iordan looks at "Montenegro's untouched nature, rich history, and vibrant culture" as the secrets to a perfect getaway.Meanwhile, underrated destinations in Central and East Asia are gaining momentum, too. For Explore Worldwide's Michael Edwards, "South Korea is the place to visit" this year. "A relatively unexplored slice of Asia, the country seamlessly juxtaposes over 5,000 years of culture and history with all things hyper-modern," he explains. Check the retro-futuristic lobby and rooms of Busan's color-block Coolest Hotel and you will know Edwards' prediction is spot on.Still, there are more Asian explorations to try out this year. According to James Adkin, Product Manager at Explore Worldwide, "there's a huge amount of interest in the Silk Road at the moment, both culturally and historically," with bookings to Uzbekistan rising up 52% compared to last year. Countries like Cambodia, with its "untouched beaches and breathtaking scenery", and abundant wildlife, "tick several travel boxes," explains Jordan, while Holiday Extras' has Vietnam's Côn Đảo archipelago down as the best place to visit between November and April 2025.3. Passion — and Event — TourismImage 1 of 4Osaka, the host of the 2025 EXPO, is known for its vibrant nightlife and culinary scene, as well as for its immersive natural parks(Image credit: Getty Images)Hotel Peter and Paul is one of New Orleans' coolest design hotels, making it the perfect stay for travelers wanting to enjoy the 2025 Super Bowl LIX in style(Image credit: Hotel Peter and Paul. Design: StudioWTA, ASH NYC, and Nathalie Jordi)Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim's "The Form" (2024), one of the colossal artworks presented as part of Frieze Sculpture, which returns to London 15-19 October 2025 alongside Frieze and Frieze Masters(Image credit: Linda Nylind. Courtesy of Linda Nylind and Frieze)The minimalist, chic interiors of Hotel Volkshaus Basel, a must-know destination for creatives looking to attend the Basel 2025 Eurovision (13-17 May) or Art Basel 2025 (19-22 June)(Image credit: Hotel Volkshaus Basel. Design: Herzog & de Meuron)Last year, record-smashing pop singer Taylor Swift's North American Eras Tour had a $2 billion impact on the US economy, with tour locations seeing direct correlation between concert dates and spikes in hotel bookings (Check out Livingetc's interiors-led deep dive into Taylor Swift property to catch a glimpse of her estate empire). In Philadelphia, for example, May was the strongest hotel revenue month, coinciding with the music artist's presence in town. Across Europe, hotel prices in concert cities increased by an average of 44%, while in Singapore alone, inbound flights, accommodation bookings, and tours to local attractions grew by 186%, 462%, and 2,373% during the local leg of the Eras Tour, Trip.com reported.For LaDell Carter, Lead Luxury Lifestyle Travel Designer and Founder of Royal Expression Travels, passion-led tourism is not going anywhere in 2025. "Travel has always been an emotional purchase, but now more than ever, it's an act of self-prioritization and purpose," she tells me. Today, "it is not just about where people go, but why they are going and how their unique needs are met along the way." Rebecca Recommends's Rebecca Slater couldn't agree more. "This year we expect to see travel plans centered around major events, and not just concerts," the Founder explains. "Whether it's witnessing the Sydney New Year's Eve Fireworks, catching the Super Bowl LIX action in New Orleans, or checking off a bucket list trip at the Monaco Grand Prix, there are numerous significant events around the world that are already attracting attention."Already noted in our books are the Frieze fairs (20-23 February, Los Angeles. 7-11 May, New York. 15-19 October, London); the Expo 2025 (13 April-13 October 2025), with Osaka, Japan's second-largest city, playing as host; the Eurovision Song Contest (13-17 May 2025), which lands in Basel, Switzerland's creative capital, in late spring, a month ahead of the Art Basel exhibition (19-22 June 2025); Milan Design Week (7-13 April 2025), including Salone del Mobile; and the long-anticipated reunion tour of Oasis, coming to the UK 4 July-17 August 2025.When it comes to passion tourism, which doesn't merely include trips related to specific events, but encompasses a thorough (and recently, even AI-assisted) personalization of all aspects of the journey, the secret "lies in the details," Carter explains. This 2025 travel trend is all about "delving into the intricacies of each traveler's passions and preferences," she adds. "Take Canyon Ranch in Arizona, for example. When I visited with colleagues, it didn't feel like a group trip — it was all about my personal path. From curated workout routines to tailored wellness consultations, every moment was designed around me. Their ambassador had planned everything in advance, and by the time I arrived, it felt like they had known me for years." That, for her, is "the magic of passion-led travel — it transforms a destination into a deeply personal journey."4. Adventure TravelImage 1 of 8Luxury group Belmond is at the forefront of the train renaissance, and the images of its rail solutions speak for themselves(Image credit: Belmond)The interiors are a one-way-ticket to an Agatha Christie's mystery(Image credit: Belmond)The brutalist exterior of Paradero Todos Santos, an experiential luxury hotel nestled in the Mexican desert(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)Our Habitas AlUla, a sustainable desert resort housed within the orangey dunes of the Ashar Valley, Saudi Arabia(Image credit: Our Habitas AlUla. Design: Habitas)The breathtaking views surrounding Paradero Todos Santos(Image credit: Paradero Todos Santos. Design: Ruben Valdez and Yashar Yektajo)The ferrata trail near Amangiri, a spectacular luxury resort in Canyon Point, Utah(Image credit: Amangiri)Another detail from a Belmond train, captured as it speeds by(Image credit: Belmond)... and its atmospheric golden hour(Image credit: Belmond)If there's a leitmotif that permeates all the travel 2025 trends, it is a desire for experiences that feel as challenging and personal as they are unforgettable. It is the rise of the "adventure travel boom", which, as Much Better Adventures CMO and Co-Founder Sam Bruce puts it, "is fueled by those craving immersive experiences and an escape from the humdrum of daily life." For the travel expert, this trend doesn't just offer physical, mental, and social benefits, but when done right, "it boosts local economies far more sustainably than traditional tourism," he adds.Traditionally, adventure travel comprises anything from "going kayaking and wildlife spotting" to "hiking in less-visited regions of Europe". This Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report gives it the design treatment: think lavishly furnished, flashing trains straight out of an Agatha Christie thriller, luxury glamping resorts and cabins immersed in the glowing Arabian desert, and opencast Mexican resorts bringing brutalist interiors to life through safari tours, art itineraries, as well as fitness, surf, and cooking classes.Ditch the Plane for the Train2025 might as well be called the year of the train. Why? Not only is the British Railway celebrating its 200th anniversary, but a whole new range of retro-inspired luxury trains, inspired by the legendary 1883 Orient Express and bringing its Art Deco design style into the contemporary, are coming to multiple locations across the globe, making traveling as timeless and captivating as it has ever been.Among such anticipated openings are those of La Dolce Vita Orient Express, an all-Italian designed train created to connect Rome to destinations like Venice and Sicily, with décor reviving the creative genius of 1960s to 1970s icons Gio Ponti, Nanda Vigo, and Gae Aulenti signed by Dimorestudio; the Britannic Explorer, the latest newcomer to Belmond's dazzling railway portfolio, and England and Wales' first luxury sleeper train; SJ Norge's Norient Express, promising a six-day adventure through some of Norway's most scenic landscapes; the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express, which will take you to the discovery of one of the world's most ancient trading network and the marvels sited along it; and the American Dreamstar Lines, a nightly luxury train operating between Los Angeles and San Francisco, with interiors by Designworks.From the vibrant Seven Stars in Kyushu, an emblem of Japan's time-traveling craftsmanship, to the Wes Anderson-esque Maharajas' Express, offering exclusive journeys across North-West and Central India, and South Africa's Rovos Rail, guiding you across the Rainbow Nation through Namibia and Tanzania, the world has far more trains today than you would expect it to have — and they are taking us back to the future! For Journeyscape's Rebecca Harley, this trend reflects "a growing urge for sustainable exploration and meaningful experiences." In Canada, "travelers seek to reduce their carbon footprint while taking in the country's breathtaking landscapes," she says, adding that locations like the Niagara Falls, Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa, and Quebec have all become more easily accessible through iconic routes such as Via Rail. "Trains offer a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and scenic immersion, making an especially appealing option for solo travelers who prioritize safety and ease."From hiking, climbing, and boating, to yoga and horseback riding, everything is possible at AmangiriGoing SoloHarley's mention of solo travelers isn't in any way coincidental. According to Intrepid Travel CCO Leigh Barnes, "the desire to travel is so strong that most young adults may not be waiting for friends, family, or anyone else to book their trip, and are willing to go solo." A recent study conducted by the company showed that "nearly four in five US adults say they have taken or would be interested in taking a solo trip, with nearly nine in ten adults aged 18-35 saying the same," he adds. For Charnell Ward, PR Specialist at Pearl Lemon Adventures, solo travelers are among the greatest protagonists of the 2025 travel trends: "they are increasingly seeking experiences that balance independence with a sense of community, such as joining wellness retreats or adventure tours where connections form naturally," she says.Because of their wide-ranging on-site activities and just as impressive modern interior design, we think that destinations like Paradero Todos Santos, rising at the very tip of the Baja California Sur state, the Ashar Valley's Our Habitas AlUla resort and Caravan accommodations, and the Utah-based Amangiri "adrenaline-fueled adventure and peaceful desert retreats" would make the ultimate solution for tasteful solo travelers with insatiable wanderlust.5. When, Not WhereImage 1 of 8The sophisticated mountain feel of the cōmodo, a design gem in the Austrian Alps(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)... and its snowy views(Image credit: the cōmodo. Design: Piotr Wisniewski and Barbara Elwardt)The modern rustic feel of Casa Cook North Coast, an Egyptian resort with style to spare(Image credit: Casa Cook North Coast. Design: Vision Alphabet and Shehab A. Mazhar Architects)The aurora borealis, as experienced from Welcome Beyond's Aurora Cabin in Laupstad, Norway(Image credit: Welcome Beyond)The modernist exterior of Boca de Agua, a stunning, tropical Mexican retreat(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)The view from one of the suites of the Casa Cook El Gouna, sited on the Red Sea(Image credit: Casa Cook El Gouna. Design: Common Architecture)Boca de Agua's iconic interiors(Image credit: Boca de Agua. Design: Frida Escobedo)Perhaps the biggest 2025 travel trend of them all, 'When, Not Where' sees the world's wanderers plan their much-awaited getaways as a way out of extreme temperatures and the frenzy of everyday life. Rather than traveling at the peak of summer, or winter, more people seem to be interested in "uncovering a different side to a destination by exploring outside of conventional times," Ayaka Hasegawa, PR Manager at Luxury Tour Operator Black Tomato, tells me.Joining 'cool-' and 'warmcations' — or the journeys we take to foreign destinations in an attempt to avoid the heat and frost in our countries — respectively, "noctourism has emerged as a micro trend of its own", with people wandering around their chosen holiday locations at night "to escape daytime crowds, witness once-in-a-lifetime natural phenomena, and enjoy the place at a more relaxed pace," adds the expert. Meanwhile, the growing popularity of the off- and shoulder seasons, a symptom of the shift towards more sustainable ways of conceiving travel, allows travelers to interact with the beauty of coveted destinations like New Zealand and Australia — previously overlooked during the cooler months — in completely new ways.If places like Egypt's Common Architecture-designed Casa Cook El Gouna and the modernist paradise of Balacar's Boca de Agua grant you a balmy respite from winter's below-zero temperatures, Welcome Beyond's Scandinavian design-inspired properties such as The Cliff in Quebec and Laupstad's Aurora Cabin are your portal into nature's wonders and interior (as well as exterior) coolness.2025 has only just begun, but we know travel will be a huge part of it. Whether pointing you in the direction of the best places to visit this year and the most design-worthy accommodations available there, or convincing you to take up solo travel for the very first time, we hope this Livingetc's Year in Travel Trends 2025 Report has given you a reason to be on the move — whether literally or metaphorically.With climate change manifesting dramatically as we write, this year's travel predictions urge us to focus on the when, how, and why of tourism far more than on the where alone. Let this guide you in planning journeys that can nurture you and your close ones as much as they contribute sensibly to the environment around you. And if you are stuck for inspiration, head to our hotel design pages, your online directory to stylish escapism. Source link

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Why Travel Insurance is Essential for Your Next Adventure

Introduction: Embarking on a new adventure is an exciting experience filled with new sights, sounds, and memories waiting to be made. However, amidst all the anticipation and thrill, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of travel insurance. Travel insurance is a safety net that can offer you peace of mind and financial protection on your journey. In this article, we will explore why travel…